When to see a Doctor for Stomach Bloating?

Bloating is a common symptom that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including digestive issues, hormonal changes, and diet.

When to See a Doctor for Stomach Bloating?

While bloating is often not a cause for concern and can be relieved with simple lifestyle changes, in some cases, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Which Doctors Can Help?

Stomach bloating is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors. The treatment for bloating depends on the underlying cause. Here are some medical professionals who can help in treating stomach bloating depending on its cause:

• Gastroenterologist: A specialist in digestive system disorders who is best suited to treat stomach bloating if it is related to gastrointestinal problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or celiac disease.
• Nutritionist: If the bloating is related to diet, a nutritionist can help identify the foods causing the problem and recommend changes in the diet.
• Endocrinologist: If the bloating is caused by a hormonal problem such as polycystic ovary syndrome or hypothyroidism, an endocrinologist can treat the underlying cause.
• Psychiatrist or Psychologist: If the bloating is related to stress or anxiety, a psychiatrist or psychologist can help manage these issues through therapy or medication.

It’s worth noting that a general practitioner can assist in identifying the cause of bloating and making a referral to a specialist if necessary. However, if you’re suffering from bloating, the following are signs that you should seek medical attention:

Common Causes of Stomach Bloating

Having a bloated stomach after eating is often associated with the presence of gas in the digestive tract. Sometimes, it is a consequence of bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates in the colon, as well as bad habits such as eating too quickly, overeating, or due to intolerance to certain foods as mentioned earlier.

Bloating is sometimes associated with intestinal diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, gastric ulcers, or even lactose intolerance. For this reason, it is highly advisable to visit a doctor when abdominal distension becomes frequent, especially if the pain is accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, or even diarrhea.

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What to do when having Stomach Bloating

Despite being mentioned earlier, it is very important as a first step to check for intolerance to certain foods, the most common being lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and wheat intolerance. It is also advised to avoid carbonated drinks and to eat food slowly, which helps to prevent excessive air from entering the digestive system.

On the other hand, it is also advisable to avoid or remove from the diet any food that contains excessive seasoning or spice, as this irritates the intestinal mucosa. Cooking food by steaming or grilling can also be very helpful, as it avoids difficult-to-digest foods such as fried foods. Therefore, high-fat foods can be consumed, but without going overboard, as the body digests them slowly, which delays stomach emptying, leading to bloating.

Medical Procedures to perform for Stomach Bloating

When experiencing frequent stomach bloating, it is highly recommended to seek medical attention. The doctor may perform various medical tests to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms. These tests may include blood tests to check for infections, inflammation or deficiencies, and imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound to assess the digestive system’s structure and identify any abnormalities.

Additionally, other diagnostic procedures may be carried out such as endoscopy, which involves a thin, flexible tube with a camera that is inserted into the digestive tract to view the internal organs and tissues. This procedure is useful in detecting any abnormalities in the digestive system, including inflammation, ulcers, or tumors. In some cases, a breath test may also be recommended to diagnose conditions such as lactose intolerance or bacterial overgrowth. These medical examinations are essential in determining the root cause of abdominal bloating and ensuring timely and effective treatment.

Conclusion

Stomach bloating can be a common symptom that can be attributed to mild or temporary factors such as overeating or consuming gas-producing foods. However, there are instances where bloating can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires medical attention. 

It is important to learn to listen to our bodies, especially after consuming certain foods, and to seek medical attention if bloating is accompanied by severe pain or discomfort, persistent or worsening over time, or accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, blood in the stool, or unexplained weight loss. Following a healthy diet and avoiding bad habits can also be helpful in reducing bloating.