Abdominal bloating is a common condition in which the abdomen feels full and tight. It may cause discomfort, pain, and an inability to move easily.
Bloating can be caused by many different factors including medical conditions, dietary choices, lifestyle habits, medications, or other underlying causes.
What is Bloating?
Bloating is when you feel fullness in your upper abdomen after meals, commonly referred to as a “bloated stomach.” Occasionally, you might also experience bloating in your lower abdomen around your belly button (umbilicus).
Bloating is a result of gas, constipation, or intestinal blockage that causes your abdomen to expand. It can make you feel uncomfortable or pressured and your clothing may also feel tighter.
Why is it Important to Differentiate the Types of Bloating?
The area where you experience bloating can indicate which section of the intestine might be affected. Understanding the difference between various causes of bloating can aid in identifying the specific cause and seeking appropriate relief.
Upper Abdominal Bloating
If you feel bloated in the upper abdomen and experience symptoms such as belching and heartburn after meals, it often suggests a problem with the stomach. This usually occurs when someone eats quickly or excessively.
Consumption of oily or spicy foods or carbonated beverages during meals can also lead to bloating. Generally, it is a result of a combination of these lifestyle factors.
Lower Abdominal Bloating
If your bloating is located in the lower abdominal region, it could be due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). People with IBS often experience chronic pain and changes in bowel habits such as alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhoea.
It can also occur when the stools are not expelled from the body quickly enough, leading to an accumulation of gas and faecal matter in the lower abdomen.
How can I Improve the Bloating Sensation?
To find relief from abdominal bloating, it is important to determine the underlying cause. It may be beneficial to seek medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen over time.
Some tips that can help reduce bloating include:
Avoid eating or drinking water too fast
Avoid talking while you eat
Avoid eating too much or too full
Avoid carbonated drinks during mealtime
Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve sleeping quality
Cut down on foods that are too spicy or oily
Avoid foods in excessive amounts that may increase gas formation in the intestines, such as beans, sweet potatoes, soya milk
Takeaway
Abdominal bloating can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, dietary choices, lifestyle habits, and medications. Try implementing the tips above to reduce the bloating sensation and determine the underlying cause of your abdominal discomfort.
Remember, understanding the area where you experience bloating can indicate which section of your intestine might be affected, making it easier for you to identify the specific cause and seek appropriate relief.
If you find that your bloating persists or worsens over time, it may be beneficial to seek medical advice from a gastroenterology specialist.
Disclaimer Notice
The content on this website, including text, graphics, images, and information, is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. RICHMOND ENDOSCOPY AND GASTROINTESTINAL SPECIALISTS PTE. LTD takes no responsibility if the information on this website is used without consulting one of its specialists.