Bloating and Gas

Bloating and gas are common gastrointestinal symptoms characterized by discomfort due to excess air or gas in the digestive system.

Common Causes of Bloating and Gas

1. Dietary Factors: Consuming gas-producing foods like beans, lentils, broccoli, cabbage, carbonated beverages, or artificial sweeteners can lead to bloating and gas.
2. Lactose Intolerance: Inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products, can result in gas and bloating after consuming dairy.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and bloating, often triggered by certain foods, stress, or hormonal changes.
4. Gastrointestinal Infections: Bacterial or viral infections, such as gastroenteritis, can lead to temporary bloating and gas as the body fights off the infection.
5. Constipation: Infrequent or difficult bowel movements can cause trapped gas and bloating.
6. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): An overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine can lead to excessive gas production and bloating.
7. Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten damages the small intestine, causing digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to bloating and gas.
9. Gastroparesis: Delayed stomach emptying can result in bloating, as food ferments in the stomach.
10. Diverticulosis: Small pouches (diverticula) in the colon can trap gas and lead to bloating, which may progress to diverticulitis if infected.

Proper diagnosis of bloating and gas often requires a thorough medical evaluation, including dietary assessment, imaging studies, and sometimes endoscopic procedures. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve dietary modifications, medications to relieve symptoms, and addressing any related conditions or diseases. Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital offers specialized care to identify and manage the root causes of bloating and gas, ensuring patient comfort and well-being.