Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Persistent abdominal bloating
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Persistent abdominal bloating?
Persistent abdominal bloating is the uncomfortable sensation of fullness or tightness in the abdomen, often accompanied by visible swelling. It can make your stomach feel heavy, and may even cause discomfort or pain. Understanding the cause of bloating can help you manage it effectively, allowing you to feel better and more in control of your health.
Symptoms of Persistent abdominal bloating
If you experience persistent bloating, you may notice:
- A feeling of fullness or heaviness in your stomach, even after eating small amounts
- Visible swelling or distension of your abdomen
- Gas or excessive burping
- Abdominal discomfort or pain, especially after meals
- A sensation of tightness in your stomach
What causes Persistent abdominal bloating?
There are several potential causes of persistent bloating:
- Dietary factors: Foods like beans, cruciferous vegetables, carbonated drinks, and dairy can cause gas and bloating.
- Digestive disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, or lactose intolerance can lead to bloating.
- Constipation: When stool builds up in the colon, it can cause a feeling of fullness and bloating.
- Overeating or eating too quickly: Consuming large meals or eating too quickly can overwhelm your digestive system, leading to bloating.
- Hormonal changes: Bloating is common during the menstrual cycle, especially during the premenstrual phase.
Risk factors for Persistent abdominal bloating
Certain factors can increase your risk of persistent bloating:
- Poor diet: A diet high in processed foods, sugars, or high-fat meals can disrupt digestion and lead to bloating.
- Digestive conditions: Conditions like IBS, celiac disease, or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) make bloating more common.
- Hormonal fluctuations: Women may experience more bloating during menstruation or pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can slow down digestion, leading to bloating.
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How is Persistent abdominal bloating diagnosed?
To diagnose the cause of persistent bloating, a healthcare provider may:
- Conduct a physical exam to check for signs of bloating or other digestive issues.
- Review your medical history and eating habits.
- Order blood tests to check for food allergies, infections, or underlying conditions.
- Perform imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, if more serious conditions like tumors are suspected.
How is Persistent abdominal bloating treated?
Treatment for bloating depends on its cause:
- Dietary changes: Reducing intake of gas-producing foods or incorporating smaller, more frequent meals can help alleviate bloating.
- Medications: Over-the-counter medications like simethicone or probiotics may help relieve gas and bloating.
- Treatment for underlying conditions: If bloating is due to a digestive disorder, medication or therapy for the condition will be necessary.
- Stress management: Since stress can exacerbate bloating, techniques like yoga, meditation, or relaxation exercises may help reduce symptoms.
Medications for Persistent abdominal bloating
There are several medications that can help alleviate bloating:
- Simethicone: An over-the-counter anti-gas medication that helps relieve bloating and discomfort.
- Probiotics: Supplements that can improve gut health and reduce bloating caused by digestive issues.
- Laxatives: For bloating caused by constipation, laxatives may help relieve symptoms.
Can Persistent abdominal bloating be prevented?
While you can't always prevent bloating, you can reduce your risk by:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming your digestive system.
- Avoiding trigger foods that cause gas or discomfort.
- Staying hydrated and eating fiber-rich foods to promote healthy digestion.
- Exercising regularly to keep your digestive system moving.
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques to avoid bloating caused by tension.
Managing Persistent abdominal bloating at home
You can manage bloating at home by:
- Limiting gas-producing foods like beans, cabbage, or carbonated drinks.
- Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and aid digestion.
- Using a warm compress on your abdomen to relieve discomfort.
- Exercising regularly, even light activity like walking, to encourage digestion.
When should you seek help for Persistent abdominal bloating?
You should seek help if:
- Your bloating is persistent or accompanied by severe pain or other symptoms like vomiting.
- You notice a sudden change in your bowel movements or weight along with bloating.
- You have difficulty breathing or feel unusually fatigued.
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How NiHowdy helps with Persistent abdominal bloating
NiHowdy supports individuals with bloating by offering savings on medications that can relieve symptoms, such as anti-gas treatments or probiotics. With NiHowdy, you can access affordable medications and earn Bitcoin rebates, helping you manage your bloating effectively while saving on healthcare costs.
Success stories with Persistent abdominal bloating
Ara had been struggling with frequent bloating and discomfort due to digestive issues. After using NiHowdy to save on her anti-gas medications, she was able to manage her bloating more effectively, feeling more comfortable and confident throughout her day.
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