Abdominal Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is abdominal bloating?

Abdominal bloating is a feeling of fullness or stretching in the abdomen, often accompanied by an increase in its size. It is a common issue that can be caused by various factors such as poor diet, stress, or digestive system disorders.

Causes of abdominal bloating

• Poor diet. Consuming large amounts of carbohydrates, gas-producing foods like cabbage, beans, and carbonated drinks can lead to bloating.
• Overeating. When you overeat, the body cannot digest all the food, leading to gas buildup and a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen.
• Digestive issues. Disorders in the intestines, such as constipation or irritable bowel syndrome, can cause bloating.
• Stress. Emotional tension can affect the gut, sometimes leading to abdominal bloating.
• Gastrointestinal diseases. Chronic gastrointestinal disorders like gastritis, ulcers, or inflammation can also cause bloating.

Symptoms of abdominal bloating

• Feeling of fullness or stretching in the abdomen.
• Increased abdominal size after eating.
• Frequent burping or rumbling in the abdomen.
• Painful sensations in the abdomen, often associated with increased gas production.

Treatment for abdominal bloating

• Dietary adjustments. Avoid gas-producing foods and reduce the amount of food per meal.
• Probiotics. Probiotics help normalize intestinal flora, which may reduce bloating.
• Medications. Medications that reduce gas production or ease intestinal spasms may be used to relieve symptoms.
• Stress management. Relaxation practices, such as yoga or meditation, can help reduce stress's impact on the body.