Bloating of the stomach and abdomen is usually a result of excess gas buildup in the large intestine (colon) that causes a distended abdomen. The colon bends a lot, and when air (gas) gets trapped in the bends, it may cause bloating, cramps, or sharp pains.
Causes of bloating of the stomach and abdomen include:
- Consumption of certain foods such as beans, some fruits and vegetables, dairy products, wheat, and carbonated beverages
- Swallowing air, which can occur while eating, drinking, or smoking
- Conditions that harm the digestive system
- Constipation
- Gastroparesis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- Certain gynecological conditions
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
What Are Symptoms of Bloating of the Stomach?
The main symptoms of bloating of the stomach and abdomen include:
- Abdominal distention
- Feeling of fullness in the belly
- Gas (flatulence)
- Belching
See a doctor if the following symptoms accompany bloating:
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Blood in stool
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
How Is Bloating of the Stomach Diagnosed?
Bloating of the stomach and abdomen is a symptom of another underlying condition. To diagnose the cause of bloating, tests may include:
- Stool tests to check for blood, unusual levels of fat, and other things
- Blood tests to check for gluten intolerance
- Breath test to check for lactose intolerance or overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines
- X-rays to check the intestines
- Upper endoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Pelvic examination in women
What Is the Treatment for Bloating of the Stomach?
Treatment for bloating of the stomach and abdomen depends on the cause and may include:
- Dietary changes
- Lactase supplements to help digest dairy products such as Lactaid
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines
- Simethicone (Maalox Anti-Gas, Mylanta Gas, Gas-X, or Phazyme) to help break up gas bubbles in the intestines
- Beano to help digest beans and some vegetables
- Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) to help ease gas
- Digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, protease, or HCL to help relieve bloating
- Prescription medications
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Reviewed on 1/19/2022
References
Image Source: iStock Images
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/gas-and-bloating-the-basics?search=Bloating&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/bloating-causes-and-prevention-tips
https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=aa109116
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/gas-and-bloating-the-basics?search=Bloating&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/bloating-causes-and-prevention-tips
https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=aa109116