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Why does putrefaction cause the abdomen to swell?
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death
Learn what happens to the body after death.
During the stage of decomposition known as putrefaction, the abdomen swells primarily due to the accumulation of gases produced within the body.1
After death, the bacteria that normally reside in the digestive tract are no longer contained by the immune system. These bacteria begin to digest the intestines and surrounding tissues, breaking down proteins, carbohydrates, and other organic compounds. This metabolic activity produces various gases as by-products, which build up inside the body cavity. Because these gases have nowhere to escape, they cause the abdomen to distend and swell. Over time, the pressure from these gases can eventually cause the skin to rupture.1