Bloating: A Common but Manageable Symptom
Diet, stress and gut motility all play roles.
Dr. Yann Beaumont
Gastroenterologist
- Functional gut disorders (IBS)
- Aerophagia
- Fermentable food sensitivity (lactose, fructose, FODMAPs)
- Constipation
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) in some cases
Red flags
Persistent abdominal swelling, weight loss, anaemia, blood in stool, postmenopausal abdominal distension — investigate to exclude ovarian or colorectal disease.
Dietary trial
Low-FODMAP diet (supervised, 4-6 weeks elimination then reintroduction) helps a majority of IBS-related bloating.
Other measures
Eat slowly, avoid carbonated drinks and chewing gum, gentle abdominal exercise, treat coexisting constipation.
Persistent abdominal bloating in women over 50 requires CA-125 and pelvic imaging to exclude ovarian disease.
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