Bloating

Bloating is a common condition characterized by a feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen. It is often accompanied by abdominal pain, discomfort, and sometimes visible distension. Bloating can affect anyone and is usually temporary, but it can also be a symptom of underlying health issues.

Causes

Bloating can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Overeating
• Swallowing air (aerophagia)
• Constipation
• Food intolerances (e.g., lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
• Hormonal changes (e.g., during menstruation)
• Certain medications

Symptoms

The primary symptom of bloating is a feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen. Other symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Excessive gas (flatulence)
• Frequent belching
• Visible abdominal swelling
• Nausea

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of bloating typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Common tests include:

• Blood tests
• Stool tests
• Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan)
• Endoscopy
• Breath tests for lactose intolerance or SIBO

Treatment

Treatment for bloating depends on the underlying cause. General recommendations may include:

• Dietary changes (e.g., avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals)
• Increasing dietary fiber intake
• Staying hydrated
• Regular physical activity
• Over-the-counter medications (e.g., antacids, simethicone)
• Prescription medications for specific conditions (e.g., IBS, GERD)

Prevention

Preventing bloating involves lifestyle and dietary modifications, such as:

• Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly
• Avoiding carbonated beverages
• Reducing intake of gas-producing foods (e.g., beans, lentils, broccoli)
• Managing stress
• Avoiding chewing gum and drinking through straws

See also

• Abdominal pain
• Flatulence
• Indigestion
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth