Bloating

If you’re struggling with frequent bloating or a persistent feeling of fullness, you may be wondering what’s really causing it. In this page, we’ll explain what bloating is, the most common triggers, available treatment options, and why proper evaluation is key to finding relief and protecting your digestive health.
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What is Bloating?

Bloating occurs when the stomach or abdomen feels overly full, tight, or uncomfortable, and in some cases, it can even be painful. This sensation is usually caused by an excess of gas or air in the gastrointestinal tract.

Symptoms can range from mild to more severe and may include a visibly swollen abdomen, a strong feeling of fullness, abdominal tightness, excessive gas (belching or flatulence), and rumbling or gurgling sounds. Since bloating can be linked to a variety of underlying causes, it’s important to identify what’s triggering it in order to manage the condition effectively.

What do people experience bloating?

If bloating lasts for a long time or keeps coming back, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue, and it’s best to consult your GP. Some possible causes include:
Eating habits – such as eating too quickly, which can cause you to swallow excess air (aerophagia).
Food intolerances – particularly lactose or fructose intolerance, which can make it difficult for the body to properly digest certain foods.
Excess gas production – often linked to gut imbalances (dysbiosis) or fermentation in the digestive tract.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) – when there’s too much bacteria in the small intestine, leading to gas, discomfort, and bloating.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – a common digestive disorder that often includes bloating as a key symptom.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – including Crohn’s disease, where parts of the colon become inflamed, and ulcerative colitis, where the lining of the large bowel is inflamed and can develop ulcers.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – a digestive condition that may contribute to bloating and discomfort.
Gastroparesis – a condition where the stomach empties food and drink too slowly, causing bloating and fullness.
Lifestyle factors – including weight gain, high stress, or anxiety, which can all worsen bloating symptoms.
If you notice these symptoms happening often, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional. They can provide a clear diagnosis and recommend the right treatment to help manage your condition.

Bloating Diagnosis

Bloating can be uncomfortable and disruptive, making everyday activities feel more difficult. The good news is that once you identify what’s causing it—whether it’s certain foods, digestive conditions, or lifestyle factors—you can start taking steps to manage your symptoms. Understanding the underlying triggers not only helps bring relief but also supports better long-term digestive health.

Carbohydrate malabsorption breath test – used to check for food intolerances such as lactose or fructose intolerance.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) breath test – detects an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine that can contribute to bloating and discomfort.
Gastric emptying test – measures how quickly food leaves the stomach, helping to diagnose conditions like gastroparesis.
Colonic transit study – a non-invasive test that shows how long it takes for waste to move through the bowel.
24-hour pH impedance monitoring – assesses whether acid reflux is present and how often it occurs.
Oesophageal manometry – evaluates the function of the oesophagus (food pipe) and how well it moves food toward the stomach.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the product and billing.
What is bloating?
Bloating is a common digestive symptom where the stomach or abdomen feels full, tight, or swollen. It often happens due to excess gas, air, or fluid in the digestive system.
What causes bloating?
Bloating can be triggered by many factors, including eating too quickly, swallowing air, food intolerances (like lactose or fructose), gut imbalances, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
When should I see a doctor about bloating?
You should see your GP if bloating is persistent, painful, or comes with other symptoms such as weight loss, blood in your stool, severe abdominal pain, or unexplained changes in bowel habits. These may indicate an underlying condition that needs medical attention.
Can stress and anxiety cause bloating?
Yes. Stress and anxiety can affect digestion by altering gut motility and increasing sensitivity, which may lead to bloating and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
What foods are most likely to cause bloating?
Common culprits include carbonated drinks, beans, lentils, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cabbage), dairy (if you’re lactose intolerant), and foods high in artificial sweeteners.
How is bloating diagnosed?
Your doctor may recommend tests depending on your symptoms, such as breath tests for food intolerances or SIBO, a gastric emptying test, reflux studies, or a colonic transit study to assess how your digestive system is functioning.
What are some ways to relieve bloating at home?
Eating slowly, avoiding fizzy drinks, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and limiting foods that trigger your symptoms can help. Over-the-counter remedies for gas or probiotics may also provide relief for some people.
Is bloating the same as weight gain?
No. Bloating is usually temporary and caused by excess gas or digestive issues, while weight gain develops gradually from increased fat or muscle. However, bloating and weight gain can sometimes occur together.

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