What should you know about severe bloating?

Bloating may feel like pressure, tightness, or visible expansion of the abdomen. Gas can build up when swallowed air or gut fermentation increases, while constipation can make the abdomen feel full and uncomfortable. Some people react to lactose or other foods; irritable bowel syndrome can also involve bloating alongside abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.

Less common digestive problems can cause persistent or pronounced swelling. Coeliac disease, giardiasis, and Helicobacter pylori infection are examples that require clinical assessment rather than self-diagnosis. Read about [Bloating](/symptoms/bloating/) for a broader explanation of the symptom.

Make a brief record of when the swelling starts, what you ate, your bowel movements, and any pain, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Eat slowly, chew thoroughly, drink fluids, and take a gentle walk if movement feels comfortable. Avoid suddenly adding large amounts of fibre, as that can increase gas. Do not begin a strict elimination diet without guidance; a clinician or nutrition professional can help identify patterns safely. Nutrition Counselling may be useful when symptoms seem linked to meals.

Arrange a medical review if bloating keeps returning, lasts despite simple measures, or comes with unexplained weight loss, ongoing diarrhoea or constipation, or reduced appetite. Your clinician may review medicines, examine your abdomen, and decide whether testing is appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, a hard or very swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to pass stool or gas, fainting, confusion, blood in vomit or stool, or trouble breathing. These features can signal a problem that needs prompt examination. If symptoms are milder but new and persistent, contact a general practitioner soon.

Ask: What causes should we consider given my bowel pattern and medicines? Could lactose intolerance, food intolerance, coeliac disease, or irritable bowel syndrome fit my symptoms? Do I need an examination or tests? Which foods should I keep eating while we investigate? What warning signs should prompt urgent care?