SYMPTOMS
Bloating & Gas
SYMPTOMS
Bloating & Gas
Bloating and gas are very common symptoms. Bloating (or distension) is a swelling or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen. People with bloating will often also experience trapped gas, crampy abdominal discomfort, rumbling noises in the abdomen, and excess gas (burping or flatulence). Bloating is normally due to a build-up of gas in the digestive tract, although constipation or fluid retention may also result in bloating.
What foods and drinks can cause bloating and gas?
Bloating often occurs or worsens after eating (or drinking). Possible causes include consumption of gas-containing beverages (e.g. carbonated water and sodas), swallowing air (e.g. if eating too fast), food intolerances, and eating difficult-to-digest foods (e.g. dairy products, wheat products, beans, and legumes). Dr Neil works closely with expert dieticians who can help identify the likely triggers in your diet. It is very unlikely that a food allergy would cause bloating.
What diseases can cause bloating and gas?
Occasionally bloating and gas can be due to an underlying disorder of the digestive system or elsewhere in the body. Examples include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, gastritis, and Helicobacter pylori infection, gallstones, SIBO, diverticular disease, constipation, and endometriosis. Certain gut infections such as giardia can cause bloating and gas. Bloating can occur around the time of the menstrual period. In older women with new-onset bloating, it is important to rule out ovarian cancer as a cause for the symptoms. In severe liver disease with cirrhosis, build-up of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) may cause abdominal distension.
When should you see a doctor with bloating?
If you have persistent or recurrent bloating and gas, or if bloating makes it difficult to do daily activities, you should make an appointment to speak with Dr Neil. You should also make an appointment if you also experience diarrhea or constipation, bleeding, or weight loss.
Dr Neil has extensive experience in investigating and treating troublesome abdominal bloating and gas. He also works closely with expert dieticians who can help identify food triggers for your bloating and who can advise on diet plans to reduce your symptoms.