Bloating is a condition characterized by a feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen, often accompanied by visible swelling or distension of the stomach. It is a common issue that many people experience at some point in their lives.
The causes of bloating can vary and may include:
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Excessive gas production: The most common cause of bloating is the accumulation of gas in the digestive system. This can occur when air is swallowed while eating or drinking, or when bacteria in the gut produce gas during the digestion of certain foods.
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Overeating: Consuming large meals or eating too quickly can overload the digestive system, leading to bloating and discomfort.
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Digestive disorders: Certain underlying digestive disorders can contribute to chronic bloating. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can cause bloating symptoms.
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Food intolerances: Some individuals may have difficulty digesting specific types of food, such as lactose (found in dairy products) or gluten (found in wheat and other grains), resulting in bloating and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Constipation: Bloating can occur when stool builds up in the colon, causing a feeling of fullness. Constipation may be caused by a lack of dietary fiber, inadequate hydration, a sedentary lifestyle, or certain medications.
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Hormonal changes: Women may experience bloating due to hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle. This is commonly referred to as "water retention" and is often accompanied by other premenstrual symptoms.
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Swallowing air: Habits like chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, or smoking can cause the swallowing of air, leading to bloating.
Consult Dr. Vedant Karvir, the Best Gastroenterologist in Mumbai practising at Globus Gastroenterology Hospital