Abdominal distension in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is abdominal bloating?

It is a feeling of a swollen, full or tight abdomen, sometimes with visible enlargement, gas and discomfort. It is very common and usually does not indicate a serious disease.

What causes it?

Eating fast or too much, swallowing air, carbonated drinks, fermentable foods such as legumes, onion or some sweeteners, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Also intolerances such as lactose or fructose, celiac disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.

What can help?

Eating slowly with moderate portions, cutting back on fizzy drinks and gum, keeping a diary to identify trigger foods, treating constipation and walking after meals. A dietitian can guide a trial diet to find culprit foods without restricting too much.

When should you see a doctor?

If it is persistent or getting worse, or comes with weight loss, vomiting, blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, anemia, fever or a steadily growing abdomen. In women, new persistent bloating should also be evaluated to rule out ovarian problems.

Find bloating specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find gastroenterologists, dietitians and general practitioners. Compare profiles and book your appointment.