Bloating is when your stomach feels bigger, tighter, or uncomfortable. Sometimes, it can also be painful. In most cases, it is caused by gas in your belly. But in some cases, it may happen due to fluid buildup. Also, it can be mild or severe. It may go away quickly or last a long time.
It happens to many people. It is especially common in those with stomach or bowel problems, like IBS. However, even healthy people can feel bloated due to food choices or daily habits.
See your healthcare provider if your bloated stomach:
Diagnosis may involve a detailed medical history, dietary assessment, and physical examination. Furthermore, tests such as abdominal ultrasound, endoscopy, or blood tests may be conducted to identify underlying conditions.
Treatment depends on the cause of the bloating. Common approaches include dietary changes, medications to manage gas or digestive issues, and lifestyle modifications such as reducing stress and eating slowly.
Prevention strategies include avoiding known food triggers, eating smaller, more frequent meals, reducing carbonated beverage intake, and practicing good eating habits. Identifying and managing underlying health conditions is also important.
You should consult a doctor if it is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms. For example, unexplained weight loss, severe abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits. A medical evaluation is necessary to rule out serious conditions.
Home remedies may include drinking herbal teas (such as peppermint or ginger tea) and using a heating pad on the stomach. Additionally, engaging in gentle physical activity can help reduce gas and discomfort.
If your bloating is caused by something you ate or drank, or by hormone changes, it should start to get better within a few hours or days. However, if you’re constipated, the bloating won’t go away until you have a bowel movement.
Drinking water, moving your body, and sipping herbal teas can help with this. But if your situation doesn’t improve or starts to feel worse, it’s best to see a doctor.
Possible causes include gas, constipation, bowel obstructions, motility disorders, weight gain, hormones, ascites, inflammation of the stomach, etc.
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