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A bloated stomach feels tight, full and often painful also known as a gassy stomach or bloating of stomach is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While often temporary and harmless, it can significantly impact the quality of life, affecting daily activities with a feeling of distended, uncomfortable and downright self-consciousness.
At Manipal Hospitals, we prioritise educating our patients about symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options associated Bloated Stomach and gas, providing valuable insights and assistance for individuals experiencing this common concern.
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Recognising the symptoms of gas is the first step towards finding relief. Some of the common signs of Bloated Stomach are listed below:
The uncomfortable sensation of fullness and tightness accompanied by an increase in belly size.It may feel as though your stomach is overly stretched or distended
Bloated Stomach is often accompanied by the presence of excessive gas in the digestive system. This can lead to uncomfortable sensations such as bloating, belching, and flatulence. The severity of gas symptoms can vary, ranging from mild discomfort to significant pressure and bloating
When the digestive system becomes bloated, it can be challenging to expel built-up gas. This can exacerbate the feeling of fullness and discomfort, leading to increased pressure in the abdomen.
Bloated Stomach can sometimes coincide with changes in bowel habits. This may include constipation, characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements, or diarrhea, which involves loose or watery stools. Additionally, some individuals may experience alterations in stool consistency, such as stools appearing harder or softer than usual.
Recognizing these symptoms can help individuals identify when they are experiencing bloating or puffy belly and take steps to alleviate discomfort.
Identifying the root cause of the bloating is crucial for tailored treatment. Here are some common reasons for bloated stomach:
Various digestive disorders can contribute to bloating. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), characterized by abdominal pain, discomfort, and changes in bowel habits, can often manifest with bloating as a prominent symptom. Additionally, conditions like lactose intolerance, celiac disease (an immune reaction to gluten), and gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying) can also lead to bloating
Food intolerances, such as sensitivity to certain foods or ingredients, can trigger bloating in susceptible individuals. Common culprits include dairy products (due to lactose intolerance), gluten-containing foods (for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease), and gas-producing foods like beans and cruciferous vegetables
Ingesting excess air can contribute to bloating. Activities such as talking while eating, drinking carbonated beverages, and chewing gum can introduce air into the digestive system, leading to gut bloating and discomfort
Consuming large meals or eating too quickly can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to bloating. When the stomach is overloaded with food, it can result in delayed gastric emptying and increased pressure in the abdomen, causing bloating and discomfort.
Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can influence fluid retention and gastrointestinal function, leading to bloating in some women. Bloating may occur in the days leading up to menstruation and typically resolves once the period begins
Psychological factors, such as stress and anxiety, can impact digestive function and exacerbate bloating symptoms. Stress can alter gut motility, increase intestinal permeability, and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, all of which may contribute to gut bloating and digestive discomfort
Accurate diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment approach. Gastroenterologists may recommend the following steps:
Physical examination: Gastroenterologists will conduct a thorough physical examination, which may include palpating the abdomen to assess for tenderness, distension, or masses. They may also check for signs of bloating and listen for bowel sounds
Medical history analysis: Gathering a comprehensive medical history is essential for identifying potential underlying causes of bloating. Gastroenterologists will inquire about symptoms, previous medical conditions, medications, and family history of digestive disorders
Dietary assessment: Assessing dietary habits can provide valuable insight into potential triggers for bloating. Gastroenterologists may ask patients to keep a food diary to track their dietary intake and any associated symptoms.
Also Read: Foods That Help’s With Gas and Bloating.
Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to evaluate various markers, including inflammatory markers, blood cell counts, and tests for conditions such as celiac disease or food allergies.
Stool tests: Stool tests may be conducted to assess for signs of inflammation, infection, or malabsorption. These tests can help identify underlying gastrointestinal conditions that may contribute to bloating, such as inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal infections
Breath tests: Breath tests are commonly used to diagnose conditions such as lactose intolerance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and carbohydrate malabsorption. These non-invasive tests measure the levels of certain gases in the breath following the ingestion of specific substrates
Imaging tests (rarely): In some cases, imaging tests such as abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be ordered to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract for structural abnormalities or other underlying conditions. However, these tests are typically reserved for cases where other diagnostic modalities have not provided sufficient information
Treatment for bloating depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:
Identifying and avoiding triggers that exacerbate your bloating is crucial.
While some sources of fibre can initially cause bloating, incorporating soluble fibre gradually can help regulate digestion and prevent future issues.
Drinking plenty of water aids digestion and prevents constipation, contributing to a flatter stomach.
In mild cases, over-the-counter or prescription medications can be what relieves bloating fast, but in more severe cases, consult your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.
Chronic stress can disrupt gut function and contribute to bloating. Relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can be helpful.
Smoking irritates the digestive system and can worsen stomach bloating symptoms. Thus quitting smoking can provide gas and bloating relief.
Soothes the digestive tract and eases gasdiscomfort.
Chew or brew them as a tea to aid digestion and reduce bloating.
Its anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial for some individuals experiencing bloating.
A warm compress on your abdomen can relax muscles and provide comfort.
Gentle stretches and movement can help stimulate digestion and reduce
Bloating is a common gastrointestinal issue that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. By understanding the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options associated with bloating, individuals can take proactive steps towards managing their condition effectively. At Manipal Hospitals, our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing comprehensive care and support for patients experiencing bloating, ensuring timely diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans tailored to their unique needs.
Gentle exercise, yoga, a warm compress, and sipping ginger or peppermint tea can provide temporary relief. However, consult your doctor for persistent or severe bloating.
Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is crucial for long-term relief. Lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medication may be helpful depending on the cause.
Eating smaller meals more frequently, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding trigger foods can significantly reduce bloating episodes.
The five signs of bloating may include a feeling of tightness in the abdomen, stomach pain or discomfort, difficulty in passing air and constipation.
Depending on the results of the physical examination you will be referred to one of the following specialists:
A sudden and severe bloating that lasts longer and is accompanied by intense pain should be treated by a medical professional immediately.
