What should you know about excessive gas and bloating?

Belching releases air from the upper digestive tract; passing wind releases gas from the bowel. Bloating can occur when gas, stool or altered gut movement creates pressure. A Food Intolerance or Lactose Intolerance may present with symptoms after a trigger food. Irritable Bowel Syndrome can combine bloating with abdominal discomfort and altered bowel habits. Coeliac Disease and Giardiasis are other digestive conditions a clinician may consider when symptoms persist. The symptom itself cannot confirm a diagnosis.

Notice whether symptoms follow rushed meals, chewing gum, fizzy drinks, constipation or a particular food. Slow down at meals, chew thoroughly, take a gentle walk and keep hydrated. Change one suspected food at a time rather than adopting a very restrictive diet. A clinician or pharmacist can advise about constipation treatment. Nutrition Counselling may help you plan a balanced elimination and reintroduction approach when appropriate.

Book an appointment when gas and bloating are persistent, recurrent or accompanied by diarrhoea, constipation, reduced appetite or tiredness. Get urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, blood or black stool, fever, fainting, a rigid distended abdomen, or inability to pass stool or gas. Seek prompt review for unplanned weight loss.

Ask which causes fit your timing and bowel pattern, whether testing is needed, and how to try dietary changes safely. Share your food and symptom diary, recent travel, and every medicine or supplement you use.