What are the common symptoms of indigestion. How can lifestyle changes help manage dyspepsia. What medications are available for treating severe indigestion. How does diet affect indigestion symptoms. When should you see a doctor about persistent indigestion.

Understanding Indigestion: More Than Just an Upset Stomach

Indigestion, medically known as dyspepsia, is a common digestive issue affecting up to 30% of the population. It refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often occurring after eating or drinking. While not a disease itself, indigestion can be a symptom of other conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Recognizing the symptoms of indigestion is crucial for proper management and treatment. Common signs include:

• Bloating
• Discomfort in the upper abdomen
• Feeling overly full after meals
• Nausea
• Excessive gas
• Burning sensation in the digestive tract

Is indigestion always related to food consumption? Not necessarily. While it often occurs after eating or drinking, some individuals may experience symptoms even without consuming large amounts of food.

Common Causes of Indigestion: From Lifestyle to Medical Conditions

Understanding the root causes of indigestion can help in its management and prevention. Some common factors include:

1. Eating habits: Consuming large meals, eating too quickly, or lying down soon after eating
2. Dietary choices: Spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
3. Lifestyle factors: Stress, smoking, excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
4. Medical conditions: GERD, peptic ulcers, or Helicobacter pylori infection
5. Medications: Certain painkillers, antibiotics, or iron supplements

Can pregnancy cause indigestion? Yes, hormonal changes and the growing uterus during pregnancy can lead to increased instances of indigestion.

Lifestyle Modifications: First Line of Defense Against Indigestion

For mild and infrequent symptoms, simple lifestyle changes can often provide relief. Consider implementing these strategies:

• Identify and avoid trigger foods
• Opt for water instead of carbonated beverages
• Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Practice mindful eating by slowing down during meals
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid tight-fitting clothes
• Wait at least 3 hours after eating before lying down
• Elevate the head of your bed
• Quit smoking or avoid second-hand smoke

How effective are these lifestyle changes? Many individuals find significant relief from indigestion symptoms by implementing these modifications consistently.

Medical Interventions: When Lifestyle Changes Aren’t Enough

For severe or frequent symptoms, medical intervention may be necessary. A range of medications is available to treat indigestion, depending on its cause and severity:

Over-the-Counter Options:

• Antacids: Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Rolaids
• H-2-receptor antagonists: Tagamet, Pepcid
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Prilosec, Nexium

Prescription Medications:

• Stronger PPIs: Aciphex, Protonix
• Prokinetics: Reglan
• Antibiotics: For H. pylori infections
• Low-dose antidepressants: For nervous system-related digestive issues

Are there potential side effects to these medications? Yes, like all drugs, these can have side effects. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option based on individual health conditions and potential drug interactions.

Dietary Strategies for Managing Indigestion

Diet plays a significant role in managing indigestion symptoms. Implementing the following dietary strategies can help alleviate discomfort:

• Follow a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Reduce intake of spicy and fatty foods
• Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Choose water over carbonated beverages
• Avoid acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits
• Opt for smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones

Can probiotics help with indigestion? Some studies suggest that probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods may help balance gut bacteria and reduce indigestion symptoms in some individuals.

Alternative Therapies: Exploring Holistic Approaches to Indigestion

For those seeking complementary approaches to managing indigestion, several alternative therapies may offer relief:

• Herbal remedies: Peppermint, ginger, and chamomile tea
• Acupuncture: Traditional Chinese medicine technique
• Stress reduction techniques: Meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises
• Digestive enzymes: Supplements to aid in food breakdown

While these methods may provide relief for some, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for Indigestion

While occasional indigestion is common, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unintentional weight loss
• Persistent vomiting
• Blood in vomit or stools
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Chest pain or shortness of breath

These symptoms may indicate more serious underlying conditions that require prompt medical evaluation and treatment.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing Future Indigestion Episodes

While not all cases of indigestion can be prevented, implementing certain strategies can help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes:

• Keep a food diary to identify trigger foods
• Practice portion control
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques
• Maintain a consistent eating schedule
• Stay hydrated with water throughout the day
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Avoid lying down immediately after meals

Can chewing gum help prevent indigestion? Some studies suggest that chewing sugar-free gum after meals may increase saliva production and help neutralize stomach acid, potentially reducing indigestion symptoms.

Indigestion, while common, can significantly impact quality of life if left unmanaged. By understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms, and implementing appropriate lifestyle changes and treatments, most individuals can find relief from this uncomfortable condition. Remember, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious underlying conditions.

Dyspepsia: Symptoms, causes, and treatments

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Dyspepsia, the medical term for indigestion, refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often after eating or drinking. It is not a disease but symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions. Lifestyle tips and medication can help manage it.

Dyspepsia is a common problem, affecting up to 30% of the population. Common symptoms include bloating, discomfort, feeling too full, nausea, and gas.

In most cases, it happens after eating or drinking. Lifestyle changes can often help.

Other causes include medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the use of certain medications.

A doctor will diagnose dyspepsia if a person has one or more of the following symptoms:

• pain relating to the digestive system
• a burning sensation in the digestive tract
• feeling too full after eating
• feeling full too quickly during eating

A person may also experience bloating and nausea.

A person can have symptoms even if they have not eaten a large amount.

Treatment for dyspepsia depends on the cause and severity. Often, treating an underlying condition or changing a person’s medication will reduce dyspepsia.

Lifestyle treatments

For mild and infrequent symptoms, lifestyle changes may help. These include:

• avoiding or limiting the intake of trigger foods, such as fried foods, chocolate, onion, and garlic
• drinking water instead of soda
• limiting the intake of caffeine and alcohol
• eating smaller meals more often
• eating slowly
• maintaining a moderate weight
• avoiding tight-fitting clothing
• waiting 3 hours or more before going to bed
• raising the head of the bed
• avoiding or quitting smoking, if a smoker

Medications

For severe or frequent symptoms, a doctor may recommend medication. People should speak to their doctor about suitable options and possible side effects.

There are various medications and treatments available, depending on the cause of dyspepsia.

Medication options include:

Antacids

These counter the effects of stomach acid. Examples include Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Rolaids, Riopan, and Mylanta. These are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that do not need a prescription. A doctor will usually recommend an antacid medication as one of the first treatments for dyspepsia.

H-2-receptor antagonists

These reduce stomach acid levels and are more effective than antacids. Examples include Tagamet and Pepcid. Some are available OTC, while others are by prescription only. Some may carry a risk of adverse effects. A doctor can help a person choose a suitable option.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs reduce stomach acid and are stronger than H-2-receptor antagonists. Examples are Aciphex, Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, and Zegerid.

Prokinetics

These can help boost the movement of food through the stomach. Examples include metoclopramide (Reglan). Side effects may include tiredness, depression, anxiety, and muscle spasms.

Antibiotics

If a Helicobacter pylori infection is causing peptic ulcers that result in indigestion, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. Side effects may include an upset stomach, diarrhea, and fungal infections.

Antidepressants

Sometimes, a problem with the central nervous system can lead to digestive problems. A low dose of an antidepressant may help resolve it.

Counseling

Chronic indigestion can affect a person’s quality of life and overall well-being. Counseling may help some people manage these issues.

Options may include:

• cognitive behavioral therapy
• biofeedback
• hypnotherapy
• relaxation therapy

Drug interactions

If a person’s medication appears to be a trigger for indigestion, a doctor may recommend adjusting the drug dose or type.

It is important to change medications only under the supervision of a doctor.

Dietary choices may help manage indigestion.

Tips include:

• following a healthful, balanced diet
• limiting the intake of spicy and fatty foods
• limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption
• drinking water instead of sodas
• avoiding acidic foods, such as tomatoes and oranges

Consuming four or five smaller meals per day instead of three larger ones can also help.

Indigestion can result from lifestyle or dietary habits, a medical condition, or the use of some drugs.

Common causes of indigestion include:

• dietary factors
• smoking
• obesity
• stress

If there is no identifiable structural or metabolic cause, a doctor will diagnose functional dyspepsia.

Dyspepsia can also be a symptom of a wide range of health conditions, including:

• GERD
• peptic ulcer disease
• stomach cancer or another type of cancer
• medications, such as antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• obesity
• pancreatitis
• gallstones
• liver disease
• gastritis, or inflammation of the stomach
• hiatal hernia
• infection, especially with H. pylori
• celiac disease
• irritable bowel disease
• irritable bowel syndrome

In pregnancy

Dyspepsia is common during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. This is due to hormonal changes and the way the fetus presses against the stomach.

A doctor or pharmacist can recommend safe ways to manage indigestion during pregnancy.

Many people experience mild dyspepsia from time to time and manage it with lifestyle changes or OTC medication.

However, anyone who has frequent indigestion or worsening symptoms should seek medical help.

People should see a doctor if they have the following symptoms alongside indigestion:

• severe stomach pain
• changes in bowel movements
• frequent vomiting, especially with traces of blood
• blood in the stools or black stools
• a lump in the abdominal area
• unexplained weight loss
• anemia
• generally feeling unwell
• difficulty swallowing food
• yellow coloring in the eyes and skin
• shortness of breath
• sweating
• chest pain that spreads to the jaw, arm, or neck

A doctor will ask the person about:

• their symptoms
• their personal and family medical history
• any other health conditions and medications that they are taking
• their dietary habits

They may also examine the chest and stomach. This may involve pressing down on different parts of the abdomen to check for areas that may be sensitive, tender, or painful under pressure.

In some cases, a doctor may use the following tests to rule out an underlying health condition:

• Blood test: This can assess for anemia, liver problems, and other conditions.
• Tests for H. pylori infection: In addition to a blood test, these tests may include a urea breath test and a stool antigen test.
• Endoscopy: The doctor will use a long, thin tube with a camera to take images of the gastrointestinal tract. They may also take a tissue sample for a biopsy. This can help them diagnose an ulcer or a tumor.

In rare cases, severe and persistent indigestion can lead to complications. These include:

Esophageal stricture

Persistent exposure to stomach acid can cause scarring in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The tract can become narrow and constricted, causing difficulty with swallowing and chest pain. Surgery may be necessary to widen the esophagus.

Pyloric stenosis

In some cases, stomach acid can cause long-term irritation of the pylorus, the passage between the stomach and the small intestine. If the pylorus becomes scarred, it can narrow. If that happens, a person may not be able to digest food properly, and they may need surgery.

Peritonitis

Over time, stomach acid can cause the lining of the digestive system to break down, leading to an infection called peritonitis. Medication or surgery may be necessary.

Dyspepsia is often mild, and people can make dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage it. If these do not work, a doctor can prescribe medications.

In some cases, there may be a more serious underlying cause. Anyone who has concerns about new, severe, or ongoing dyspepsia should seek medical advice.

Shop online for:

• antacids
• proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
• prokinetics

Abdominal bloating: Causes, symptoms and remedies

There are many causes of abdominal bloating, including gas, fluid retention, irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances, menstrual symptoms, and infection. People can often treat bloating at home, but some causes may need medical attention.

Abdominal bloating — an uncomfortable, full feeling in the belly area — can be alarming, particularly when painful. The abdomen can look larger than usual or be shaped abnormally. Persons may also have piercing abdominal pain. Yet, most times, the cause may just be indigestion or gas building up in the stomach and gut.

Usually, bloating is not a concern if it:

• is associated with food or eating
• does not get worse with time
• goes away within a day or 2

In this article, we look at the causes of abdominal bloating, treatments, and how to know when to see a doctor.

Abdominal bloating is common. Many people experience the same type of bloating again and again. Normally, bloating that follows a predictable pattern is not a worry.

When the pattern changes or bloating becomes worse than expected, it may be one of the following conditions:

Gas

A buildup of gas in the stomach and intestines is among the most common causes of bloating. Other symptoms include:

• frequent burping
• passing too much gas
• feeling a sudden urge to pass stool
• feeling nauseous

Bloating caused by gas may cause mild discomfort up to intense pain. Some people describe feeling that there is something trapped inside their stomach.

Possible causes of gas include:

• certain foods, including carbonated beverages, dairy, beans, cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage
• swallowing air while eating or chewing gum
• a stomach infection
• chronic illnesses, such as celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• indigestion

In most cases, gas goes away on its own after a few hours.

Indigestion

Indigestion, sometimes called dyspepsia, is discomfort or pain in the stomach that can include bloating. Most people experience brief episodes of indigestion from time to time.

It is often caused by:

• eating too much
• drinking excessive alcohol
• taking medications that irritate the stomach, such as ibuprofen
• a minor stomach infection

Frequent indigestion with bloating that does not appear to be associated with food or other apparent causes could be a sign of something more serious. Potential serious causes include a stomach ulcer or stomach cancer.

Infection

Stomach infections can cause bloating, which may be accompanied by:

• diarrhea
• vomiting
• nausea
• stomach pain

These can be caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli or Helicobacter pylori — or a viral infection such as norovirus or rotavirus.

Stomach infections usually go away on their own after a few days. However, some people may become severely dehydrated or continue to get worse over several days.

These individuals should see a doctor if the bloating coincides with:

• fever
• bloody stool
• severe and frequent vomiting

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

The stomach and intestines are home to various bacteria, which help the body digest food. Disturbing the balance of bacteria can lead to an increase in harmful bacteria in the small intestine. This is known as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth or SIBO.

SIBO can cause bloating, frequent diarrhea, and difficulties digesting food and absorbing nutrients. These chronic symptoms may lead to osteoporosis or weight loss in some people.

Fluid retention

Salty foods, changes in hormone levels, and food intolerances can cause a person’s body to hold more fluid than it would otherwise. For instance, some females may become bloated right before their periods or early in pregnancy.

Chronic bloating caused by fluid retention could have a more serious cause, such as liver or kidney failure or diabetes. If the bloating does not go away, a person should speak with a doctor.

Food intolerances

Some people become bloated after eating certain foods — for example, people who have lactose intolerance, gluten allergy, or celiac disease. Bloating can be linked to diarrhea or stomach pain and will go away by removing the problem-causing food.

Chronic disorders

Crohn’s disease and IBS often produce bloating. Crohn’s disease digestive tract inflammation and has a specific course and treatment. In contrast, the cause of IBS is unknown and is often diagnosed when there is no specific reason for symptoms.

Both IBS and Crohn’s can cause gas, diarrhea, and vomiting. If a person is also experiencing unexplained weight loss, they’re more likely to have Crohn’s disease.

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a disorder that affects regular stomach emptying. As a result, the nerves that regulate stomach motion stop working correctly, which causes food to pass much more slowly through the stomach and intestines.

Symptoms include:

• bloating
• constipation
• feeling full quickly when eating
• loss of appetite
• heartburn
• nausea and vomiting
• pain and discomfort

Diseases such as diabetes or hypothyroidism sometimes cause gastroparesis.

Gynecological disorders

Some gynecological problems cause bloating, such as a monthly period or menopause. Also, endometriosis — in which the womb lining attaches to the stomach or intestines — can cause bloating, cramping, and stomach pain.

Women with early ovarian cancer may have bloating as the only symptom of a problem. However weight gain, constipation, and pain could also occur.

Constipation

Bloating begins when food contents build up in the gut. This condition — called constipation — can come from:

• dehydration
• not enough fiber in the diet
• food intolerance
• pregnancy
• certain bowel disorders
• nutrient deficiencies, including magnesium
• certain medicines

In most people, laxatives, exercise, drinking water, or changing the diet can resolve episodes of constipation and bloating.

Other causes

Less commonly, abdominal bloating may be due to other serious conditions. People with gallstones or gallbladder disease may experience intense abdominal pain that mimics bloating.

Ascites, a pool of fluid in the abdominal cavity is another condition that leads to abdominal pain and bloating. The most common cause of this fluid buildup is liver disease.

Bloating can usually be safely treated at home by using lifestyle changes, home remedies, or over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

Keeping a food diary to monitor bloating is helpful as this aids with diagnosing food intolerances and making healthy lifestyle changes. Many people find that avoiding certain foods prevents bloating and other gastrointestinal health issues.

Some options that may help include:

Lifestyle changes

• drink more water
• reduce sodium in the diet
• eliminate foods that cause bloating
• chew food slowly
• eliminate chewing gum
• regular exercise

Home remedies

• eating peppermint
• drinking a mixture of baking soda and water
• drinking apple cider vinegar
• applying a heating pad to the stomach

OTC medications

These include:

• antigas products to break up gas pockets (simethicone)
• food supplements to break down problem proteins or sugars (Beano, Lactaid)
• antacids to calm excess acid (Tums, Mylanta, Maalox)
• bismuth salicylate to inhibit bacterial infection (Pepto-Bismol)
• laxative to relieve constipation (Ducolax or Senakot)
• rectal suppository or enema to have a bowel movement (Fleet)

Prescription medications

A doctor may also prescribe:

• antispasmodics can relax the muscles and help relieve bloating
• certain antibiotics in cases of IBS or bacterial overgrowth in the abdomen
• prokinetics can speed up digestion, which may reduce bloating
• certain antidepressants such as citalopram (Celexa) may help reduce bloating

Rarely, bloating is a sign of something more serious. A person should see a doctor for bloating or gas associated with:

• intense pain
• a fever
• vomiting lasts longer than 24 hours
• difficulty keeping food down
• bloody stools
• a physical injury, such as a punch to the stomach or a car accident
• rapid swelling of the abdomen
• surgery
• liver or kidney failure

Abdominal bloating can be upsetting and painful. There are many simple causes of abdominal bloating, such as gas, constipation, indigestion, food intolerance, and fluid retention.

These symptoms are easily treated with home remedies, lifestyle changes, OTC medications, and prescription medications.

For most people, the cause can be treated at home and is something simple. A person should speak with a doctor if the symptoms worsen or do not go away after a few days.

When should I be worried about bloating?

If bloating patterns have changed suddenly or are getting worse for no reason, a person should see a doctor.

Bloating with bloody stools, fever, intense pain, inability to eat, or frequent vomiting can be serious and need urgent care.

What relieves abdominal bloating?

Treat causes of abdominal bloating with home remedies or OTC medications. For example, try walking or moving around, using an antacid or antigas medicine, drinking some water, or using a heating pad.

Why do I look pregnant from bloating?

A swollen belly that looks like pregnancy can be from a condition called ascites. This condition can be related to liver problems, so it is essential to get urgent care.

What causes lower vs. upper abdominal bloating?

Upper abdominal bloating may be related to slow movement of the intestine called gastroparesis, swallowing air while eating, an infection, or overeating. Lower abdominal bloating can be from constipation, IBS, gas caused by food intolerance, or fluid retention.

I have had a sudden change in bowel movements and have frequent bloating.

What could this be?

The doctor should check for any sudden changes in bowel habits with bloating. In rare cases, these symptoms could be related to ovarian cancer or colon cancer.

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Treatment of bloating and gas formation – Provincial pharmacies

Flatulence or bloating is the accumulation of gases in the intestines. The sensation of bloating can be manifested both with an excess amount of gas, and with their insufficient discharge.

Symptoms of bloating

The main symptoms encountered with flatulence:

• Perceptible enlargement, distension of the abdomen
• Belching
• Flatulence – increased release of gases from the lower parts of the digestive tract

Also, with flatulence, symptoms of abdominal pain may occur. They show up in different ways. The pain can be both aching and cramping.

Complaints of bloating include bad breath, diarrhea, and nausea. In some cases, shortness of breath is possible due to pressure on the diaphragm.

Causes and treatment of bloating

The causes of flatulence can be different. One of the most common is related to the quality of nutrition and does not always indicate the presence of diseases with serious disorders in the body. In such cases, symptoms may appear for the following reasons:

• Overeating
• Hasty eating with air swallowing
• Consumption of foods that promote gas formation
• Use of incompatible products

In addition, swallowing air can also occur when smoking or talking while eating.

However, in some cases, bloating occurs due to diseases. Among the reasons:

• Irritable bowel syndrome;
• Intestinal infections
• Celiac disease
• Pancreatitis
• Diseases of the central nervous system
• Parasitic diseases

The method of treatment depends on the nature of the clinical manifestations of swelling. With flatulence, it is recommended to abandon products that stimulate the production of gases in the intestines. Among them:

• Cabbage
• Beans
• Peas
• Citrus fruits
• Carbonated drinks
• Salty snacks
• Alcoholic beverages

With severe manifestations of flatulence, it is also recommended to take pharmacy coal. Before buying drugs, it is better to consult a specialist. If bloating has been tormenting for a long time, and you have not encountered it before, then you should undergo a diagnosis. Taking medication will help relieve symptoms, but will not help treat the causes of bloating and gas.

Bloating in pregnant women

In pregnant women, the causes and treatment of bloating may be different.

This is due to changes in the hormonal background. During pregnancy, sex hormones are produced in greater quantities. For example, increased production of the hormone progesterone reduces the tone of the muscles of the uterus and intestinal walls. When the uterus enlarges, it compresses the intestines and disrupts the passage of its contents, so bloating is also possible in the later period. Another possible reason is an inactive lifestyle.

To treat bloating in women, doctors also recommend eating a special diet and eating regularly. It is also recommended to walk on the face more often. Such simple preventive measures will help relieve discomfort.

For bloating in pregnant women, a specialist may prescribe simethicone. However, it is not worth assigning it yourself. Bloating, as in other cases, may indicate disorders in the body.

If bloating and discomfort cause severe discomfort, you need to see a doctor. For diagnosis, he can refer to an ultrasound or a gastroscopy procedure. So experts will be able to accurately determine the presence of possible violations.

causes, flatulence, treatment, gas, pain, pills, drugs

Many people associate bloating with flatulence, but this is not always the case. In most cases, indeed, improper gas formation in the intestines leads to an increase in the size of the abdomen. This is especially noticeable in infants, when their digestive system is just learning to accept new food. Adults also experience bloating when eating certain foods. However, if the enlarged belly is constantly bothering you, you need to consult a doctor.

Contents

1. Causes of bloating
2. Causes of bloating in women
3. Diagnostics
4. Bloating – Treatment

Causes of bloating

Aerophagy

When a person talks while eating, he may swallow too much air, resulting in bloating. Therefore, experts always recommend eating in a calm environment.

Intestinal dysbacteriosis

An imbalance in the flora causes a general deterioration in digestion, the population of probiotics decreases. There is an inadequate response of bacteria to different types of food. Digestion produces too much gas.

Reaction to various types of food

There are a number of foods that cause flatulence. This list may be individual for each person. List products:

• Legume family (peas, beans, chickpeas, lentils). In countries where it is customary to use them in large quantities, people are well adapted to them and do not suffer from flatulence. Also, beginner vegetarians use the tactic of getting used to legumes and over time their intestines react normally.
• Cruciferous family (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower).
• Dairy products. Some people experience severe flatulence after drinking milk. This may indicate a deficiency of the lactase enzyme.
• Cereals. Poor tolerance of cereal crops (wheat, barley, rye) is expressed by swelling. This means that the body does not accept their main protein – gluten.
• Onion and garlic.
• Carbonated water.
• Sugar substitutes.
• Certain alcoholic beverages (beer).
• Lollipops, chewing gum, too greasy food.

Hypolactasia or lactose intolerance

As we mentioned above, this condition causes a person to experience bloating, pain, and cramps after eating dairy products.

Celiac disease – gluten intolerance

Hereditary autoimmune disease in which antibodies attack intestinal cells when food containing gluten is ingested. As a result, an inflammatory process occurs, severe swelling, pain, and a change in stool.

Infestation with helminths

Worm infestations always cause a change in digestion, therefore, when examining the causes of swelling, a test for helminthiasis is performed.

Constipation

Constipation, as a one-off or chronic problem, accompanied by bloating. If the episode of constipation is single, then it can be easily solved by taking laxatives. But if the failure continues, then the advice of a gastroenterologist will be needed.

Gastritis

Gastritis may cause bloating. Inadequate digestion of food or an increase in acidity will lead to a malfunction in digestion. Often patients are unaware of the presence of gastritis and treat dysbacteriosis or constipation separately. Usually, this tactic does not lead to recovery. The doctor will make an accurate diagnosis, prescribe gastroscopy, ultrasound of the liver and pancreas.

Irritable bowel syndrome

With this diagnosis, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, gas formation on any food, nausea alternate. Treatment and diagnosis is complex and lengthy.

Of the other causes that cause an increase in the abdomen, we will name the following:

1. Food allergies (milk, eggs, seafood, nuts, spices, citrus)
2. Intestinal obstruction (constipation, tumor process)
3. Oncological diseases
4. Inflammation, infections in the abdomen
5. Hernia
6. Intestinal atony
7. Abdominal dropsy (ascites, accumulation of water in the abdominal cavity)
8. Intestinal infections
9. Crohn’s disease (inflammation of the colon and entire gastrointestinal tract)
10. Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
11. Hepatitis, cholecystitis (inflammation of the liver and bile ducts)
12. Colitis, enteritis (inflammation in the large, small intestine)
13. Intestinal diverticulosis (protrusion of the intestinal mucosa)
14. An increase in the size of the abdomen may cause accumulation of feces. The reasons here are different: irritable bowel syndrome, obstruction, constipation, cancer.

Causes of bloating in women

Premenstrual syndrome causes many changes in the body, including excessive gas production. The work of the intestines is difficult due to the accumulation of water. Rumbling in the abdomen, heaviness and gases also disturb pregnant women and women in menopause. Doctors advise to eat small portions, drink diuretics, increase physical activity to optimize bowel function.

Uterine fibroids, ectopic pregnancy, adnexitis can also give bloating as one of the symptoms.

Diagnostics

Persistent bloating and abdominal pain may require diagnosis. Usually the patient turns to a gastroenterologist. The doctor will examine the abdomen, assess the symptoms and, depending on this, prescribe studies. Various blood tests and ultrasound of the abdominal cavity organs are the first thing the patient will encounter. The study of beneficial microflora, crops for pathogenic E. coli and many other tests. If necessary, a coprogram is ordered (analysis of a stool sample). There are methods for detecting lactase deficiency and celiac disease by blood. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are used to assess the condition of the stomach and intestines. There is also computed tomography to detect serious pathologies, such as diverticulosis, oncological processes, obstruction. Considering that bloating is caused by pathologies of the liver and pancreas, ultrasound of these organs and special blood samples are recommended.

If examinations of the gastrointestinal tract do not explain the situation, then a consultation with a urologist, gynecologist, endocrinologist, neurologist, surgeon, cardiologist, oncologist is appointed.

Bloating – Treatment

As we described above, there are a lot of pathologies that cause an increase in the size of the abdomen. Careful attitude to the stomach and intestines will help to avoid problems, especially when it comes to dysbiosis. Patients should avoid uncontrolled use of antibiotics, as they can cause bloating, and it is very difficult to restore the balance of the microflora after taking them.

How to get rid of bloating in an adult, if he is sure that this is a single episode and a comprehensive examination is not required? A number of drugs and dietary supplements that normalize digestion will help here. In case of malnutrition, the intestines can be helped with enzyme preparations: Festal, Mezim Forte, Pancreatin. They are taken with food. They contribute to the normal digestion of food, as a result, the manifestation of flatulence is reduced. During periods of exacerbation of gastritis and pancreatitis, these tablets should not be taken without the advice of a doctor.

Widely used drugs that reduce surface tension at the interface of liquids and gases. One of them is Simethicone. It is not absorbed, it works only in the intestinal lumen, reduces the foam component, removes gases. The most famous brand from this group is Espumizan capsules. The speed of its action is such that it is given to the patient immediately before the study of the digestive organs with various equipment. In the future, during the day, the effect of Espumizan will increase, it has no side effects. Simethicones are available in drops, granules, capsules: Bobotik drops for children, Motilegaz Forte, Sub Simplex drops, Simiotik, Simetikon Evalar.

Sometimes simethicone is included in other drugs. In particular, Almagel Neo is produced – a combined drug for diseases of the stomach and flatulence. Bloating and gas are often accompanied by pain. It makes sense to take antispasmodics such as Drotaverine, No-shpa, Spazmol. Dyspepsia, combined with increased gas formation, is eliminated by Smecta in powders, suitable for children.

Significant relief comes from taking carminative herbs. For example, the fruits of cumin reduce flatulence, have a laxative effect. Dill reduces inflammation and spasms, removes gases, increases appetite. We note right away that carminatives are not suitable for those who are struggling with being overweight, they increase appetite. Chamomile flowers have a complex effect on the intestines, among other things they help with flatulence, peppermint leaves (also reduces the manifestations of dysbacteriosis, nausea), lemon balm grass (dyskinesia, fermentopathy), carminative fees.

For those people who find it difficult to brew herbs, we can recommend drops on plant extracts – Iberogast. There are wide indications for the gastrointestinal tract: gastritis, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, nausea, flatulence, belching.

It is advisable to prescribe probiotic complexes after examination of the intestinal flora. Microbiota analysis will show the absence of a beneficial sector of microflora or the introduction of a pathogen. For example, lactobacilli are produced in their pure form – Acylact or bifidobacteria – Bifidumbacterin. Often in modern preparations and dietary supplements there is a complex of probiotics, including up to 10 types, as well as a prebiotic. For example, Back-Set, Maxilak, Lineks. In some cases, doctors prescribe sorbents as pills for bloating: Polysorb, activated charcoal, Enterosgel, but this is more likely as a short-term symptomatic treatment. After these drugs, there is a risk of constipation.

Normalization of bowel function, elimination of atony, timely emptying play an important role in the treatment of flatulence. For this purpose, a sparing diet rich in plant fibers is prescribed to stimulate the intestines. The patient should drink enough water. It is also justified to take laxatives if there is such an indication: Dufalac, Senade, Bisacodyl, laxative herbal collection.

There are contraindications. Specialist consultation is required.

Comprehensive spa treatment will help restore the functioning of the entire gastrointestinal tract. Mineral waters increase peristalsis, normalize stomach acidity, appetite, remove toxins, increase immunity. If bowel reactions bother a woman during PMS, then you should visit a gynecologist. Perhaps he will select a therapy in order to reduce the entire manifestation of PMS.