I have bloating in my stomach: what should I know?

Stomach bloating can come from gas, constipation, food sensitivity or digestive conditions, so its pattern matters. Notice whether it follows meals, comes with pain or altered bowel habits, and improves after passing stool or gas.

Swallowed air, fizzy drinks, eating quickly and constipation can increase abdominal pressure. Irritable bowel syndrome may cause bloating with abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel frequency or stool form. Lactose intolerance or another food intolerance can bring symptoms after particular foods. Coeliac disease can affect digestion and nutrition. Giardiasis may cause bloating with diarrhoea after contaminated food or water. Helicobacter pylori infection can be associated with upper abdominal discomfort, nausea or early fullness. These causes need different assessments, so avoid diagnosing yourself from bloating alone.

Eat slowly, chew thoroughly and reduce fizzy drinks while you observe symptoms. Gentle walking can support bowel movement. Drink fluids and address constipation with advice from a pharmacist or clinician. Keep a food and symptom diary, including portions, timing, stool changes, pain and weight changes. Do not remove major food groups for a long period without guidance; nutrition counselling can help identify patterns while protecting a balanced diet.

Seek emergency help for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, a hard swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood, black stools, fainting or inability to pass stool and gas. Arrange prompt medical review for bloating with unintentional weight loss, persistent diarrhoea, blood in stool, fever, anaemia symptoms, repeated nighttime symptoms or a new persistent change in bowel habits. Book a routine appointment when bloating keeps returning or affects eating and daily life.

Could constipation, IBS, lactose intolerance or another digestive condition explain this pattern? Should I be tested for coeliac disease, infection or Helicobacter pylori? Which foods should I record or temporarily adjust? What symptoms would require urgent care?