Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief
What Is Bloating?
Bloating is a condition where your abdomen (belly area) feels full or tight. In some cases, you can see your abdomen sticking out (distension), but bloating doesn’t always come with distension.
Overview of Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort
You may hear people say, “I’m so bloated!” after a big meal, but bloating should not be confused with feeling full. It’s normal to feel full after meals or after eating a large volume of food. Drinking a lot of liquids can also cause uncomfortable fullness.
However, feeling full differs from bloating as a condition. Individuals who experience bloating may feel bloated after a typical sized meal or even on an empty stomach.
Occasional bloating affects 10-25% of healthy people, with about 10% reporting regular bloating. Occasional bloating refers to infrequent episodes of abdominal fullness, pressure, or discomfort, typically occurring less than once a week.
Regular — also called chronic — bloating occurs at least once a week, and in many cases multiple times per week. Regular bloating may recur for extended periods, ranging from weeks to months, and understandably interferes with daily life.
How to Identify the Symptoms of Bloating
Bloating can make your abdomen feel full or tight. You may also feel pressure, as if someone has blown your abdomen up like a balloon.
The symptoms of bloating can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. An episode of occasional bloating will typically go away on its own, but if it’s a frequent occurrence it is probably worth speaking to your healthcare provider, as you may be experiencing chronic bloating.
Common Causes of Bloating & Finding Relief
Now that we’ve covered what bloating is and how to identify it, let’s discuss some of the common causes.
Swallowing Air and Eating Habits
Gas in the intestines of the digestive tract can cause pressure to build up, leading to bloating. Swallowing air is one way that gas gets introduced into the intestines. This can be caused by drinking carbonated beverages, using straws, eating too fast, or chewing gum.
If you experience regular bloating, try avoiding gum, straws, and carbonated beverages. Chew your food completely and don’t talk while chewing to minimize swallowing air.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is caused by an immune response in the intestines to the protein gluten. If someone with celiac disease eats gluten, they may experience bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid these foods to reduce symptoms. H3: Food Intolerances and Sensitivities
The terms food intolerances and sensitivities often get confused. A food intolerance is when you have trouble digesting a certain food. A common example is lactose intolerance. Symptoms of a food intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
On the other hand, a food sensitivity is when a food causes symptoms unrelated to food intolerances, allergies, or celiac disease. While food sensitivities are not yet fully understood, the idea is that certain foods trigger an immune response. Symptoms of food sensitivities vary and include joint pain, stomach pain, and fatigue.
There is emerging research on “non-celiac gluten sensitivity” (NCGS). Those who are thought to have NCGS experience symptoms, such as bloating, after eating gluten, but do not have celiac disease.
If you suspect that you have a food intolerance or food sensitivity, it’s important to work with a registered dietitian to help identify your triggers and plan a healthy eating pattern around these foods.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where there is an increased amount of bacteria in the small intestine. Bloating, especially after meals, is a common symptom of SIBO. Bacteria ferment (breakdown) the foods we eat and release gases. The buildup of gas causes bloating.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate and treat you for SIBO with the goal of relieving your symptoms and preventing recurrence. Dietary changes may also be helpful as part of a comprehensive SIBO treatment plan.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Bloating is a common symptom seen in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In fact, bloating may impact as many as 90% of individuals with IBS!
Research indicates potential causes of bloating with IBS include slowed movement of food through the gut and pressure from bacterial fermentation.
Diet changes can be helpful for the management of IBS symptoms. Dietary modifications include identifying trigger foods and increasing soluble fiber. Nutrition for IBS can be highly individualized, so it’s a good idea to work with an experienced IBS registered dietitian.
Hormones
If you have a menstrual cycle, you may notice that you get bloated before or during your period. Estrogen hormones increase the volume of the uterus and can slow the movement of food through the gut.
Some bloating around your cycle is normal, but if it’s more than a mild annoyance, consult your healthcare provider or OBGYN.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Bloating
Occasional bloating is not usually a cause for alarm, but bloating becomes an issue when you experience it regularly or if it’s severe.
If you have bloating for longer than 2 weeks, talk to your medical provider. Bloating with weight loss, loss of appetite, or pale or yellowing skin could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Similarly, if you have bloating with other digestive issues, such as constipation or diarrhea, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider. Getting diagnosed is the first step on the path towards feeling better!
Diagnostic Tests for Persistent Bloating
The type of testing your healthcare provider may recommend can vary depending on any other symptoms or medical conditions you have. Some tests for persistent bloating include:
Stool testing to check for parasites or harmful bacteria.
Gastric emptying tests to see how long it takes food to move from your stomach into your intestines.
Working with your healthcare team
Typically, bloating caused by a digestive condition will be treated by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the gastrointestinal tract. They will order testing and create a treatment plan. They may also recommend diet changes and encourage you to see a registered dietitian.
Conclusion: Achieving Relief from Bloating
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief
What Is Bloating?
Bloating is a condition where your abdomen (belly area) feels full or tight. In some cases, you can see your abdomen sticking out (distension), but bloating doesn’t always come with distension.
Overview of Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort
You may hear people say, “I’m so bloated!” after a big meal, but bloating should not be confused with feeling full. It’s normal to feel full after meals or after eating a large volume of food. Drinking a lot of liquids can also cause uncomfortable fullness.
However, feeling full differs from bloating as a condition. Individuals who experience bloating may feel bloated after a typical sized meal or even on an empty stomach.
Occasional bloating affects 10-25% of healthy people, with about 10% reporting regular bloating. Occasional bloating refers to infrequent episodes of abdominal fullness, pressure, or discomfort, typically occurring less than once a week.
Regular — also called chronic — bloating occurs at least once a week, and in many cases multiple times per week. Regular bloating may recur for extended periods, ranging from weeks to months, and understandably interferes with daily life.
How to Identify the Symptoms of Bloating
Bloating can make your abdomen feel full or tight. You may also feel pressure, as if someone has blown your abdomen up like a balloon.
The symptoms of bloating can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. An episode of occasional bloating will typically go away on its own, but if it’s a frequent occurrence it is probably worth speaking to your healthcare provider, as you may be experiencing chronic bloating.
Common Causes of Bloating & Finding Relief
Now that we’ve covered what bloating is and how to identify it, let’s discuss some of the common causes.
Swallowing Air and Eating Habits
Gas in the intestines of the digestive tract can cause pressure to build up, leading to bloating. Swallowing air is one way that gas gets introduced into the intestines. This can be caused by drinking carbonated beverages, using straws, eating too fast, or chewing gum.
If you experience regular bloating, try avoiding gum, straws, and carbonated beverages. Chew your food completely and don’t talk while chewing to minimize swallowing air.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is caused by an immune response in the intestines to the protein gluten. If someone with celiac disease eats gluten, they may experience bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid these foods to reduce symptoms. H3: Food Intolerances and Sensitivities
The terms food intolerances and sensitivities often get confused. A food intolerance is when you have trouble digesting a certain food. A common example is lactose intolerance. Symptoms of a food intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
On the other hand, a food sensitivity is when a food causes symptoms unrelated to food intolerances, allergies, or celiac disease. While food sensitivities are not yet fully understood, the idea is that certain foods trigger an immune response. Symptoms of food sensitivities vary and include joint pain, stomach pain, and fatigue.
There is emerging research on “non-celiac gluten sensitivity” (NCGS). Those who are thought to have NCGS experience symptoms, such as bloating, after eating gluten, but do not have celiac disease.
If you suspect that you have a food intolerance or food sensitivity, it’s important to work with a registered dietitian to help identify your triggers and plan a healthy eating pattern around these foods.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where there is an increased amount of bacteria in the small intestine. Bloating, especially after meals, is a common symptom of SIBO. Bacteria ferment (breakdown) the foods we eat and release gases. The buildup of gas causes bloating.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate and treat you for SIBO with the goal of relieving your symptoms and preventing recurrence. Dietary changes may also be helpful as part of a comprehensive SIBO treatment plan.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Bloating is a common symptom seen in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In fact, bloating may impact as many as 90% of individuals with IBS!
Research indicates potential causes of bloating with IBS include slowed movement of food through the gut and pressure from bacterial fermentation.
Diet changes can be helpful for the management of IBS symptoms. Dietary modifications include identifying trigger foods and increasing soluble fiber. Nutrition for IBS can be highly individualized, so it’s a good idea to work with an experienced IBS registered dietitian.
Hormones
If you have a menstrual cycle, you may notice that you get bloated before or during your period. Estrogen hormones increase the volume of the uterus and can slow the movement of food through the gut.
Some bloating around your cycle is normal, but if it’s more than a mild annoyance, consult your healthcare provider or OBGYN.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Bloating
Occasional bloating is not usually a cause for alarm, but bloating becomes an issue when you experience it regularly or if it’s severe.
If you have bloating for longer than 2 weeks, talk to your medical provider. Bloating with weight loss, loss of appetite, or pale or yellowing skin could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Similarly, if you have bloating with other digestive issues, such as constipation or diarrhea, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider. Getting diagnosed is the first step on the path towards feeling better!
Diagnostic Tests for Persistent Bloating
The type of testing your healthcare provider may recommend can vary depending on any other symptoms or medical conditions you have. Some tests for persistent bloating include:
Stool testing to check for parasites or harmful bacteria.
Gastric emptying tests to see how long it takes food to move from your stomach into your intestines.
Working with your healthcare team
Typically, bloating caused by a digestive condition will be treated by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the gastrointestinal tract. They will order testing and create a treatment plan. They may also recommend diet changes and encourage you to see a registered dietitian.
Conclusion: Achieving Relief from Bloating
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief
What Is Bloating?
Bloating is a condition where your abdomen (belly area) feels full or tight. In some cases, you can see your abdomen sticking out (distension), but bloating doesn’t always come with distension.
Overview of Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort
You may hear people say, “I’m so bloated!” after a big meal, but bloating should not be confused with feeling full. It’s normal to feel full after meals or after eating a large volume of food. Drinking a lot of liquids can also cause uncomfortable fullness.
However, feeling full differs from bloating as a condition. Individuals who experience bloating may feel bloated after a typical sized meal or even on an empty stomach.
Occasional bloating affects 10-25% of healthy people, with about 10% reporting regular bloating. Occasional bloating refers to infrequent episodes of abdominal fullness, pressure, or discomfort, typically occurring less than once a week.
Regular — also called chronic — bloating occurs at least once a week, and in many cases multiple times per week. Regular bloating may recur for extended periods, ranging from weeks to months, and understandably interferes with daily life.
How to Identify the Symptoms of Bloating
Bloating can make your abdomen feel full or tight. You may also feel pressure, as if someone has blown your abdomen up like a balloon.
The symptoms of bloating can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. An episode of occasional bloating will typically go away on its own, but if it’s a frequent occurrence it is probably worth speaking to your healthcare provider, as you may be experiencing chronic bloating.
Common Causes of Bloating & Finding Relief
Now that we’ve covered what bloating is and how to identify it, let’s discuss some of the common causes.
Swallowing Air and Eating Habits
Gas in the intestines of the digestive tract can cause pressure to build up, leading to bloating. Swallowing air is one way that gas gets introduced into the intestines. This can be caused by drinking carbonated beverages, using straws, eating too fast, or chewing gum.
If you experience regular bloating, try avoiding gum, straws, and carbonated beverages. Chew your food completely and don’t talk while chewing to minimize swallowing air.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is caused by an immune response in the intestines to the protein gluten. If someone with celiac disease eats gluten, they may experience bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid these foods to reduce symptoms. H3: Food Intolerances and Sensitivities
The terms food intolerances and sensitivities often get confused. A food intolerance is when you have trouble digesting a certain food. A common example is lactose intolerance. Symptoms of a food intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
On the other hand, a food sensitivity is when a food causes symptoms unrelated to food intolerances, allergies, or celiac disease. While food sensitivities are not yet fully understood, the idea is that certain foods trigger an immune response. Symptoms of food sensitivities vary and include joint pain, stomach pain, and fatigue.
There is emerging research on “non-celiac gluten sensitivity” (NCGS). Those who are thought to have NCGS experience symptoms, such as bloating, after eating gluten, but do not have celiac disease.
If you suspect that you have a food intolerance or food sensitivity, it’s important to work with a registered dietitian to help identify your triggers and plan a healthy eating pattern around these foods.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where there is an increased amount of bacteria in the small intestine. Bloating, especially after meals, is a common symptom of SIBO. Bacteria ferment (breakdown) the foods we eat and release gases. The buildup of gas causes bloating.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate and treat you for SIBO with the goal of relieving your symptoms and preventing recurrence. Dietary changes may also be helpful as part of a comprehensive SIBO treatment plan.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Bloating is a common symptom seen in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In fact, bloating may impact as many as 90% of individuals with IBS!
Research indicates potential causes of bloating with IBS include slowed movement of food through the gut and pressure from bacterial fermentation.
Diet changes can be helpful for the management of IBS symptoms. Dietary modifications include identifying trigger foods and increasing soluble fiber. Nutrition for IBS can be highly individualized, so it’s a good idea to work with an experienced IBS registered dietitian.
Hormones
If you have a menstrual cycle, you may notice that you get bloated before or during your period. Estrogen hormones increase the volume of the uterus and can slow the movement of food through the gut.
Some bloating around your cycle is normal, but if it’s more than a mild annoyance, consult your healthcare provider or OBGYN.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Bloating
Occasional bloating is not usually a cause for alarm, but bloating becomes an issue when you experience it regularly or if it’s severe.
If you have bloating for longer than 2 weeks, talk to your medical provider. Bloating with weight loss, loss of appetite, or pale or yellowing skin could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Similarly, if you have bloating with other digestive issues, such as constipation or diarrhea, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider. Getting diagnosed is the first step on the path towards feeling better!
Diagnostic Tests for Persistent Bloating
The type of testing your healthcare provider may recommend can vary depending on any other symptoms or medical conditions you have. Some tests for persistent bloating include:
Stool testing to check for parasites or harmful bacteria.
Gastric emptying tests to see how long it takes food to move from your stomach into your intestines.
Working with your healthcare team
Typically, bloating caused by a digestive condition will be treated by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the gastrointestinal tract. They will order testing and create a treatment plan. They may also recommend diet changes and encourage you to see a registered dietitian.
Conclusion: Achieving Relief from Bloating
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief
What Is Bloating?
Bloating is a condition where your abdomen (belly area) feels full or tight. In some cases, you can see your abdomen sticking out (distension), but bloating doesn’t always come with distension.
Overview of Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort
You may hear people say, “I’m so bloated!” after a big meal, but bloating should not be confused with feeling full. It’s normal to feel full after meals or after eating a large volume of food. Drinking a lot of liquids can also cause uncomfortable fullness.
However, feeling full differs from bloating as a condition. Individuals who experience bloating may feel bloated after a typical sized meal or even on an empty stomach.
Occasional bloating affects 10-25% of healthy people, with about 10% reporting regular bloating. Occasional bloating refers to infrequent episodes of abdominal fullness, pressure, or discomfort, typically occurring less than once a week.
Regular — also called chronic — bloating occurs at least once a week, and in many cases multiple times per week. Regular bloating may recur for extended periods, ranging from weeks to months, and understandably interferes with daily life.
How to Identify the Symptoms of Bloating
Bloating can make your abdomen feel full or tight. You may also feel pressure, as if someone has blown your abdomen up like a balloon.
The symptoms of bloating can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. An episode of occasional bloating will typically go away on its own, but if it’s a frequent occurrence it is probably worth speaking to your healthcare provider, as you may be experiencing chronic bloating.
Common Causes of Bloating & Finding Relief
Now that we’ve covered what bloating is and how to identify it, let’s discuss some of the common causes.
Swallowing Air and Eating Habits
Gas in the intestines of the digestive tract can cause pressure to build up, leading to bloating. Swallowing air is one way that gas gets introduced into the intestines. This can be caused by drinking carbonated beverages, using straws, eating too fast, or chewing gum.
If you experience regular bloating, try avoiding gum, straws, and carbonated beverages. Chew your food completely and don’t talk while chewing to minimize swallowing air.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is caused by an immune response in the intestines to the protein gluten. If someone with celiac disease eats gluten, they may experience bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid these foods to reduce symptoms. H3: Food Intolerances and Sensitivities
The terms food intolerances and sensitivities often get confused. A food intolerance is when you have trouble digesting a certain food. A common example is lactose intolerance. Symptoms of a food intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
On the other hand, a food sensitivity is when a food causes symptoms unrelated to food intolerances, allergies, or celiac disease. While food sensitivities are not yet fully understood, the idea is that certain foods trigger an immune response. Symptoms of food sensitivities vary and include joint pain, stomach pain, and fatigue.
There is emerging research on “non-celiac gluten sensitivity” (NCGS). Those who are thought to have NCGS experience symptoms, such as bloating, after eating gluten, but do not have celiac disease.
If you suspect that you have a food intolerance or food sensitivity, it’s important to work with a registered dietitian to help identify your triggers and plan a healthy eating pattern around these foods.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where there is an increased amount of bacteria in the small intestine. Bloating, especially after meals, is a common symptom of SIBO. Bacteria ferment (breakdown) the foods we eat and release gases. The buildup of gas causes bloating.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate and treat you for SIBO with the goal of relieving your symptoms and preventing recurrence. Dietary changes may also be helpful as part of a comprehensive SIBO treatment plan.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Bloating is a common symptom seen in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In fact, bloating may impact as many as 90% of individuals with IBS!
Research indicates potential causes of bloating with IBS include slowed movement of food through the gut and pressure from bacterial fermentation.
Diet changes can be helpful for the management of IBS symptoms. Dietary modifications include identifying trigger foods and increasing soluble fiber. Nutrition for IBS can be highly individualized, so it’s a good idea to work with an experienced IBS registered dietitian.
Hormones
If you have a menstrual cycle, you may notice that you get bloated before or during your period. Estrogen hormones increase the volume of the uterus and can slow the movement of food through the gut.
Some bloating around your cycle is normal, but if it’s more than a mild annoyance, consult your healthcare provider or OBGYN.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Bloating
Occasional bloating is not usually a cause for alarm, but bloating becomes an issue when you experience it regularly or if it’s severe.
If you have bloating for longer than 2 weeks, talk to your medical provider. Bloating with weight loss, loss of appetite, or pale or yellowing skin could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Similarly, if you have bloating with other digestive issues, such as constipation or diarrhea, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider. Getting diagnosed is the first step on the path towards feeling better!
Diagnostic Tests for Persistent Bloating
The type of testing your healthcare provider may recommend can vary depending on any other symptoms or medical conditions you have. Some tests for persistent bloating include:
Stool testing to check for parasites or harmful bacteria.
Gastric emptying tests to see how long it takes food to move from your stomach into your intestines.
Working with your healthcare team
Typically, bloating caused by a digestive condition will be treated by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the gastrointestinal tract. They will order testing and create a treatment plan. They may also recommend diet changes and encourage you to see a registered dietitian.
Conclusion: Achieving Relief from Bloating
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief
What Is Bloating?
Bloating is a condition where your abdomen (belly area) feels full or tight. In some cases, you can see your abdomen sticking out (distension), but bloating doesn’t always come with distension.
Overview of Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort
You may hear people say, “I’m so bloated!” after a big meal, but bloating should not be confused with feeling full. It’s normal to feel full after meals or after eating a large volume of food. Drinking a lot of liquids can also cause uncomfortable fullness.
However, feeling full differs from bloating as a condition. Individuals who experience bloating may feel bloated after a typical sized meal or even on an empty stomach.
Occasional bloating affects 10-25% of healthy people, with about 10% reporting regular bloating. Occasional bloating refers to infrequent episodes of abdominal fullness, pressure, or discomfort, typically occurring less than once a week.
Regular — also called chronic — bloating occurs at least once a week, and in many cases multiple times per week. Regular bloating may recur for extended periods, ranging from weeks to months, and understandably interferes with daily life.
How to Identify the Symptoms of Bloating
Bloating can make your abdomen feel full or tight. You may also feel pressure, as if someone has blown your abdomen up like a balloon.
The symptoms of bloating can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. An episode of occasional bloating will typically go away on its own, but if it’s a frequent occurrence it is probably worth speaking to your healthcare provider, as you may be experiencing chronic bloating.
Common Causes of Bloating & Finding Relief
Now that we’ve covered what bloating is and how to identify it, let’s discuss some of the common causes.
Swallowing Air and Eating Habits
Gas in the intestines of the digestive tract can cause pressure to build up, leading to bloating. Swallowing air is one way that gas gets introduced into the intestines. This can be caused by drinking carbonated beverages, using straws, eating too fast, or chewing gum.
If you experience regular bloating, try avoiding gum, straws, and carbonated beverages. Chew your food completely and don’t talk while chewing to minimize swallowing air.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is caused by an immune response in the intestines to the protein gluten. If someone with celiac disease eats gluten, they may experience bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid these foods to reduce symptoms. H3: Food Intolerances and Sensitivities
The terms food intolerances and sensitivities often get confused. A food intolerance is when you have trouble digesting a certain food. A common example is lactose intolerance. Symptoms of a food intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
On the other hand, a food sensitivity is when a food causes symptoms unrelated to food intolerances, allergies, or celiac disease. While food sensitivities are not yet fully understood, the idea is that certain foods trigger an immune response. Symptoms of food sensitivities vary and include joint pain, stomach pain, and fatigue.
There is emerging research on “non-celiac gluten sensitivity” (NCGS). Those who are thought to have NCGS experience symptoms, such as bloating, after eating gluten, but do not have celiac disease.
If you suspect that you have a food intolerance or food sensitivity, it’s important to work with a registered dietitian to help identify your triggers and plan a healthy eating pattern around these foods.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where there is an increased amount of bacteria in the small intestine. Bloating, especially after meals, is a common symptom of SIBO. Bacteria ferment (breakdown) the foods we eat and release gases. The buildup of gas causes bloating.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate and treat you for SIBO with the goal of relieving your symptoms and preventing recurrence. Dietary changes may also be helpful as part of a comprehensive SIBO treatment plan.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Bloating is a common symptom seen in those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In fact, bloating may impact as many as 90% of individuals with IBS!
Research indicates potential causes of bloating with IBS include slowed movement of food through the gut and pressure from bacterial fermentation.
Diet changes can be helpful for the management of IBS symptoms. Dietary modifications include identifying trigger foods and increasing soluble fiber. Nutrition for IBS can be highly individualized, so it’s a good idea to work with an experienced IBS registered dietitian.
Hormones
If you have a menstrual cycle, you may notice that you get bloated before or during your period. Estrogen hormones increase the volume of the uterus and can slow the movement of food through the gut.
Some bloating around your cycle is normal, but if it’s more than a mild annoyance, consult your healthcare provider or OBGYN.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Bloating
Occasional bloating is not usually a cause for alarm, but bloating becomes an issue when you experience it regularly or if it’s severe.
If you have bloating for longer than 2 weeks, talk to your medical provider. Bloating with weight loss, loss of appetite, or pale or yellowing skin could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Similarly, if you have bloating with other digestive issues, such as constipation or diarrhea, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider. Getting diagnosed is the first step on the path towards feeling better!
Diagnostic Tests for Persistent Bloating
The type of testing your healthcare provider may recommend can vary depending on any other symptoms or medical conditions you have. Some tests for persistent bloating include:
Stool testing to check for parasites or harmful bacteria.
Gastric emptying tests to see how long it takes food to move from your stomach into your intestines.
Working with your healthcare team
Typically, bloating caused by a digestive condition will be treated by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the gastrointestinal tract. They will order testing and create a treatment plan. They may also recommend diet changes and encourage you to see a registered dietitian.
