Topics
Understanding Abdominal Bloating
Abdominal bloating is a common digestive issue that can cause discomfort, fullness, or swelling in the abdomen. It often results from excess gas, fluid retention, or digestive disturbances and may be accompanied by symptoms such as cramping, burping, or changes in bowel movements. While occasional bloating is normal, persistent or severe bloating may indicate an underlying health concern..
If you frequently experience bloating or digestive discomfort, professional medical evaluation can help identify the cause and provide effective treatment. Gleneagles Hospitals offer expert gastroenterology services, advanced diagnostic tools, and personalised treatment plans to help you manage and alleviate bloating for better digestive health.
Common Symptoms
- A feeling of tightness or pressure in the stomach
- Visible swelling or distension of the abdomen
- Excessive belching or flatulence
- Stomach pain or cramping
- Nausea or discomfort after meals
Common Causes of Abdominal Bloating
Bloating can result from various factors, including dietary choices, lifestyle habits, or underlying medical conditions.
Acid Reflux
- Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and bloating.
- Excess gas production and delayed stomach emptying contribute to bloating
- Symptoms may worsen after consuming spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.
Gas Build-Up
- Swallowing air while eating or drinking can cause excessive gas.
- Certain foods, such as beans, lentils, carbonated drinks, and artificial sweeteners, can increase gas production.
Food Intolerances
- Lactose intolerance and gluten sensitivity can cause bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach discomfort after consuming dairy or wheat-based products.
- The inability to digest certain carbohydrates (FODMAPs) can lead to bloating.
Constipation
- Slow-moving stool in the intestines can cause bloating and discomfort.
- Inadequate fibre intake, dehydration, and lack of physical activity are common contributors.
Medical Conditions
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Causes bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements.
- Small Bowel Bacterial Overgrowth – An overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine leads to excessive gas.
- Gastroparesis – A condition where the stomach empties too slowly, often linked to diabetes or nerve damage.
How to Reduce and Manage Bloating
Making dietary and lifestyle adjustments can help alleviate bloating and improve digestion.
Dietary Adjustments
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to ease digestion.
- Avoid foods that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy, greasy, and acidic foods.
- Reduce intake of carbonated drinks and artificial sweeteners.
- Gradually increase dietary fibre intake to prevent constipation.
- Stay hydrated to support healthy digestion.
Lifestyle Changes
- Avoid eating too quickly and chewing gum, which can lead to excess air intake.
- Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel movement.
- Practise stress management techniques, as stress can worsen digestive issues like IBS.
Medical Treatments
- Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may help manage acid reflux-related bloating.
- Probiotics can improve gut health by balancing intestinal bacteria.
- Prescription medications may be required for certain conditions.
When to See a Doctor
Although bloating is often temporary and related to common digestive issues such as gas, overeating, or food intolerances, there are situations where it may signal an underlying health problem. Recognising these warning signs is crucial, as early detection and treatment can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
Persistent or Severe Bloating Lasting More Than Two Weeks
Occasional bloating is normal, but if it becomes chronic or progressively worsens over several weeks, it may indicate conditions stated above. Prolonged bloating should never be ignored and warrants further investigation.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying, especially when accompanied by bloating, could be a red flag for serious medical conditions such as celiac disease, chronic infections, or cancers of the digestive tract. This symptom often suggests that the body is not properly absorbing nutrients or that an underlying disease is disrupting normal digestion and metabolism.
Severe Abdominal Pain or Tenderness
Sharp, severe, or persistent abdominal pain is not typical of simple bloating and could point to acute conditions such as appendicitis, gallstones, pancreatitis, or bowel obstruction. Pain that intensifies or is associated by fever, vomiting, or inability to pass stool requires immediate medical evaluation.
Blood in the Stool or Black, Tarry Stools
Visible blood in the stool or dark, tar-like stools may indicate bleeding somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract. Potential causes range from haemorrhoids to more serious conditions like gastric ulcers, diverticulosis, or colorectal cancer. Any sign of gastrointestinal bleeding is considered a medical emergency and should be promptly assessed.
Difficulty Swallowing or Persistent Acid Reflux Symptoms
Chronic acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD) may cause bloating, but when associated with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain, or frequent regurgitation, it may point to esophageal disorders such as strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, or esophageal cancer. These symptoms should not be overlooked and require evaluation by a specialist.
Book an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Abdominal bloating, while common, can significantly impact daily comfort and quality of life. Fortunately, understanding the underlying causes, whether they stem from diet, lifestyle, or medical conditions, is the first step toward effective management. Simple but consistent changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, staying physically active, reducing stress, and avoiding trigger foods, can often alleviate mild to moderate bloating.
Do not let bloating affect your quality of life, schedule an appointment with us today for expert care and personalised treatment. You may also book an appointment by downloading the MyHealth360 application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
