Does gastric distention cause breathing difficulties?

Stomach distention can actually cause dyspnoea, especially in patients with underlying respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This is because when the stomach is full, it can squeeze the chest cavity upwards, causing a reduction in the volume of the chest cavity and restricting the expansion of the lungs, which can cause breathing difficulties for the patient. It is therefore recommended that patients with underlying systemic diseases should not overeat, especially at dinner. If the dyspnoea is severe, the patient should be seen in hospital for a complete examination to determine the cause.