What helps with bloating?

Bloating is a feeling of fullness, pressure or visible swelling in the abdomen. Swallowed air, constipation, fizzy drinks and digestion of certain carbohydrates can contribute. Recurrent symptoms may occur with irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerance or lactose intolerance; persistent diarrhoea, weight change or upper-abdominal symptoms need a clinician’s assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

Eat slowly, chew thoroughly and notice whether large meals, carbonated drinks, chewing gum or particular foods precede symptoms. Keep a short food-and-symptom diary without removing many foods at once. Gentle walking can support bowel movement. Drink regularly and address constipation with advice from a pharmacist or clinician. Do not start a restrictive diet without guidance; nutrition counselling can help test changes safely and maintain adequate nourishment.

Arrange medical advice for bloating that is persistent, repeatedly returning or accompanied by ongoing diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, blood in stool, fever, unexplained weight loss or reduced appetite. Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, a rigid swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting or inability to pass stool or gas.

Could constipation, an intolerance or another digestive condition explain this pattern? Which tests are appropriate? How can I change my diet without missing key nutrients? What symptoms should make me seek urgent help?