Health A to Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Bloating

Bloating happens when the stomach feels full, tight, and uncomfortable, most probably due to gas. People may confuse bloating with a noticeable belly, abdominal wall looseness, or laxity. Bloating is common among older women and those who just had a pregnancy. However, there are multiple other reasons for bloating and measures to ease it over time.

 

Symptoms of bloating

  • Stomach feels larger than usual
  • Constant stomach pain
  • Rumbling noises from the stomach
  • Releasing gas more than normal
  • Digestive issue

Reasons for bloating

One of the most common reasons for bloating is gas in the gut. Specific food, drinks, or swallowing air while eating can also be a reason behind bloating. Some digestive problems can cause bloating; they are:

  • Food intolerance
  • Coeliac disease
  • Constipation
  • Irritable bowel syndrome 

Some women might feel bloated during their menstrual cycle. But on rare occasions, bloating can also signify ovarian cancer.

Reasons for bloating

How to lower bloating?

  • Regular exercise
  • Chewing with mouth closed
  • Be hydrated, drink water
  • Consuming food with high fiber
  • More frequent meals in smaller quantity
  • Massage stomach from right to left to remove trapped air

 

What not to do during bloating?

  • Avoid fizzy drinks, caffeine, or alcohol
  • Avoid food that known for gas
  • Avoid large portions of meals before bed
  • Avoid processed, fatty, spicy foods

 

Consult a doctor for bloating?

Consult a doctor if you come across any of the following:

  • Stomach bloated for three weeks or more
  • Constantly bloated stomach
  • Often changing diet but still, feel bloated
  • Bloating along with diarrhea, abrupt weight loss, blood in stool, or constipation
  • When bloating stops you from regular activities

 

Call for an emergency when you feel bloated along with:

  • Sudden severe stomach pain
  • Blood vomiting or ground coffee color vomiting
  • When the stool is black
  • Unable to pee or release gas
  • Uncomfortable to breath
  • Severe chest pain
  • Stomach pains while touching

 

Treatment of bloating

Often bloating doesn’t require any treatment, but if you need one, your doctor might prescribe a dietitian for healthy diet tips or refer specific tests to figure out why the bloating is happening.

For personalized advice and support tailored to your health needs, consider our free doctor consultation service, where you can connect with experienced professionals ready to assist you.

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD
Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022