What should you know about constant stomach bloating and gas?

Bloating is a feeling of fullness or visible abdominal distension. Gas may build up when air is swallowed while eating, fizzy drinks are consumed, or gut bacteria ferment certain carbohydrates. Constipation can trap gas and make the abdomen feel tight. Food Intolerance, including Lactose Intolerance, can cause symptoms after particular meals. Irritable Bowel Syndrome may link bloating with abdominal discomfort and changes between constipation and diarrhoea. Coeliac Disease, Giardiasis and Helicobacter Pylori Infection are other conditions a clinician may consider when symptoms continue or recur.

Keep a brief record of meals, drinks, bowel movements and the timing of symptoms. Eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and reduce swallowed air by limiting chewing gum and fizzy drinks. Gentle walking may help gas move through the bowel. If constipation is present, discuss a gradual fibre and fluid plan with a clinician rather than making abrupt dietary changes. A Nutrition Counselling appointment can help identify patterns without unnecessarily excluding many foods. Do not start a strict gluten-free diet before discussing testing for Coeliac Disease, because it can affect the assessment.

Arrange a GP assessment if bloating is persistent, repeatedly returns, or is accompanied by ongoing diarrhoea, constipation, early fullness, unexplained weight loss or reduced appetite. Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen hard abdomen, inability to pass stool or gas, black stools, or visible blood. Fever with marked abdominal pain also needs prompt medical attention.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest constipation, a food-related problem or another digestive condition; which tests are appropriate; and whether any medicine or supplement could be contributing. Bring your symptom diary and a list of regular medicines.