Stomach bloating is the common term given to distension or swelling of the stomach. In some cases it can be as small as a minor irritation, but for others it can be a serious problem involving lots of pain and uncomfortable social situations. Additionally, the existence of stomach pain could be indicative of a bigger, more serious problem. Knowing the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment of the problem can help a patient cope with the common issue of bloating stomach pain.

There are many possible causes of stomach bloating. Perhaps one of the most common causes of a bloated stomach is lactose intolerance. This occurs when a person’s body is not able to properly digest milk and other dairy products. Aerophagia, or the swallowing of air can be one potential cause. Once air has entered the intestinal tract, it becomes trapped there. This entrapment of the air can cause swelling if the pressure is not reduced through flatulence. Another common source is diet. Certain foods naturally increase the level of gases in the stomach and abdominal region. Intestinal obstruction could be a source as well. These obstructions can be tumors, intestinal adhesion, or the presence of a foreign body. Yet another possible cause is irritable bowel syndrome, normally represented by very slow or sudden bowel movements. More serious possibilities also exist. Abdominal distension can be caused by some dangerous conditions such as ovarian cysts, diverticulitis, food poisoning, and miscellaneous cancer-related tumors.

Symptoms of swelling can be a feeling of tightness or fullness, bloating stomach pain, flatulence, chronic burping, and borborygymi, or audible sounds coming from the stomach. In addition to having a bloated stomach, there are common symptoms that are present with many of the underlying causes of abdominal tension. These symptoms include the following: nausea, cramps, diarrhea, intestinal twisting, and constipation. If these symptoms are persistent, a local physician should be contacted to make sure that it is not indicative of a more serious condition.

Depending on the root source of the problem, several different treatment options are available. Prevention is often an effective strategy. If the swelling is food-related, one treatment option is to avoid those foods that cause bloating. Some foods that frequently cause bloating are alcohol, carbonated drinks, beans, cabbage, sweets, starchy foods, sprouts, and many dairy products. Additionally, regular exercise can help to promote proper digestion and can be one possible remedy. For conditions such as lactose intolerance or irritable bowel syndrome, various medications are available to aid in controlling stomach and bloating issues. In cases which involve more serious conditions, a local doctor should be consulted to determine the best option for treatment of the bloated stomach.

Problems involving the stomach and bloating can be both painful and socially awkward. Although the possible causes are many, several treatment options exist as well. A person who takes the time to learn what is causing the stomach bloating and how to deal with it will be rewarded with more comfort and confidence.