Bloating
Bloating is the feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen. It can be caused by excess gas, constipation, or digestive disorders such as IBS or Lactose Intolerance. Bloating can be occasional or chronic, sometimes indicating underlying medical issues.
🚨 Seek Immediate Medical Care
Call emergency services if bloating is accompanied by:
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Persistent vomiting or inability to pass stool/gas.
- Fever with abdominal swelling.
- Swelling with jaundice or shortness of breath.
📞 Consult a Doctor
See a healthcare provider if:
- Bloating is frequent or persistent.
- Associated with abdominal discomfort or fullness.
- Changes in bowel habits occur (diarrhea or constipation).
- Unexplained weight loss accompanies bloating.
Common Symptoms & Causes
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Fullness or abdominal swelling | Excess Gas |
| Abdominal discomfort or pain | Constipation |
| Bloating after meals | Lactose Intolerance |
| Frequent belching | Aerophagia (Swallowing Air) |
| Chronic bloating | Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) |
Causes of Bloating
Gas & Flatulence: Excess fermentation of food in the gut.
Constipation: Delayed bowel emptying increases abdominal pressure.
IBS: Functional bowel disorder causing bloating and discomfort.
Lactose Intolerance: Difficulty digesting dairy products.
High-FODMAP Foods: Certain carbs can increase gas and bloating.
Liver or Kidney Disorders: Fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
Heart Failure: Abdominal swelling due to fluid retention.
Gastrointestinal Obstruction: Blockage causing severe bloating.
Diagnostic Procedures
Abdominal Ultrasound
Detects fluid accumulation, organ enlargement, or masses.
Stool Test
Evaluates for infections or digestive disorders.
Blood Tests
Helps detect liver, kidney, or metabolic disorders.
Endoscopy
Examines stomach and intestines for inflammation or blockage.
