Feeling bloated and heavy after eating is a common problem.
Some ideas on how to de-bloat quickly and prevent bloating in the future are listed ahead.
Some evidence-based tactics may help reduce bloating quickly and prevent it from happening again.
Stephanie Verhart / Getty Images
Avoiding food groups could prevent you from getting enough vitamins and minerals.
Symptoms of Bloated Stomach
Bloating is when the abdomen feels full and swollen.
It’s a common issue that affects almost everyone on occasion.
It often goes away without any special attention or treatment.
However, it can be related to a chronic or acute digestive condition in some cases.
Distention takes place if bloating becomes so pronounced that the belly sticks out.
Foods That Cause Gas
Bloating can develop form eatingfoods that cause gas.
The digestive system produces gas as it breaks down foods.
Sugars, starches, and fiber, in particular, act in this way.
Food Intolerances
Sensitivity or intolerance to certain foods may lead to bloating.
FODMAPs have been shown to cause bloating in some people.
People who also have IBS may be especially sensitive to certain foods and experience bloating after meals.
Medications
Some medications and supplements may cause bloating.
Constant Bloated Stomach Causes
Bloating could also be a longer-lasting problem.
Certain conditions can lead to bloating that doesn’t go away on its own.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Bloating is not listed as being part of thecriteria for diagnosing IBS.
However, a significant number of people with IBS report it as being a problem that impacts their lives.
The subtypes of IBS include diarrhea-predominant, constipation-predominant, and IBS with mixed bowel habits.
Bloating doesn’t appear to be associated with any particular form of IBS more than the others.
This could cause bloating and sometimes diarrhea or constipation.
A person with NCGS could have a reaction to gluten or certain types of sugars.
It may be difficult to distinguish NCGS from a sensitivity toFODMAPs.
Functional dyspepsia may be diagnosed when symptoms affect the upper digestive system, but no obvious cause is found.
Gastroparesis is when the stomach does not empty itself of food properly.
Both conditions could lead to bloating and distention.
Prescription medications might be used to treat the cause of bloating.
The medication used depends on the underlying cause and related conditions.
These can include:
Nondrug Treatment
Dietary changes might also be tried.
Avoiding FODMAPs can also help those who have IBS or other conditions that include intolerances to those foods.
Complications From Bloated Belly Pain
Bloating can significantly impact quality of life.
This can be costly and lead to absences from work or school.
Not knowing when bloating may occur could also affect mental health.
It could lead to less enjoyment of food and restricting food in an effort to reduce bloating.
Gastroenterologists have training in diseases and conditions of the digestive system.
People experiencing bloating may also decide to ask for a referral when bloating becomes an ongoing problem.
A gastroenterologist may start the examination process with a thorough history and a family history of digestive problems.
Several different types of tests may be used to get more information on the cause of bloating.
Finding a cause and an effective way to treat it takes time, patience, and dedicated healthcare providers.
A healthcare provider can offer suggestions on how to manage diet to help avoid possible triggers.
Getting a referral to a gastroenterologist is another key part of learning more about what could be causing bloating.
Digestive specialists have a variety of guidelines and tests available to understand the underlying cause and treat it.
Summary
Bloating is a common problem that may resolve on its own and usually does.
Over-the-counter treatments and dietary changes often are the initial steps in managing bloating.
However, bloating can become a recurrent problem when an underlying condition causes it.
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