SYMPTOMS

What is bloating?

Bloating refers to a feeling of fullness and discomfort in the stomach area, commonly known as "abdominal distension." It primarily occurs in the upper left abdomen and may result from psychological factors, dietary habits, abdominal or systemic diseases, medications, or surgical procedures that cause functional or organic changes in the digestive tract. This leads to delayed gastric emptying, creating a sensation of fullness and discomfort. The duration of bloating varies depending on the cause, ranging from a few hours of self-resolving discomfort to chronic cases lasting months.

TREATMENT

How to relieve bloating?

• Stop consuming foods that cause fullness, change into loose clothing, gently massage the bloated area, or engage in light activities like walking.

• If bloating is related to stress, anxiety, or depression, try relaxation techniques such as cultivating new hobbies, listening to soothing music, or seeking psychological counseling. If necessary, consult a psychiatrist for anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication.

• For recent or short-term bloating, over-the-counter medications like probiotics or prokinetic agents may help alleviate discomfort.

Note: If bloating persists, worsens, fails to improve with the above measures, or recurs after stopping medication, seek medical attention promptly for further diagnosis.

DIAGNOSIS

When Should You Seek Medical Attention for Bloating?

You should go to the hospital if bloating is accompanied by, but not limited to, the following symptoms or conditions:

• Nausea with vomiting of large amounts of undigested food;
• Bloody or black stools accompanied by dizziness and rapid heart rate;
• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice);
• Severe abdominal pain with no bowel movements or passing gas;
• Unexplained weight loss;
• Symptoms persist for days or months without relief.

POTENTIAL DISEASES

What are the possible causes of bloating?

Bloating may be related to psychological factors, abdominal diseases, systemic diseases, food and medications, or surgical procedures.

• Psychological factors: Depression, anxiety, etc.;

• Abdominal diseases: Chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric cancer, eosinophilic gastritis, pyloric obstruction, gastroparesis, functional gastrointestinal disorders, intestinal obstruction, liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, autoimmune liver disease, chronic hepatitis, gallstones, biliary obstruction, pancreatic cancer, acute pancreatitis, etc.;

• Systemic diseases: Systemic lupus erythematosus, uremia, diabetes, etc.;

• Medications: Statins, acarbose, etc.;

• Surgical procedures: Gastrointestinal-related surgeries, hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries, other intra-abdominal surgeries, etc.