gasbloat

Gas bloat, commonly referred to as gas bloating, is a subjective sensation of abdominal fullness and distension resulting from excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract. It can be accompanied by belching, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, cramps, and in some cases nausea or early satiety. The experience varies in intensity and duration.

Causes and contributing factors are diverse. Functional factors include impaired gas transit, altered gut sensitivity, and dietary components such as high intake of fermentable carbohydrates (the FODMAP group). Aerophagia (swallowing air), constipation, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth can increase gas production. Medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or partial bowel obstruction must be considered and ruled out. In some individuals, a history of upper abdominal surgery—particularly procedures affecting the ability to belch or vent gas, such as fundoplication—can lead to gas bloat syndrome, a specific form of persistent bloating.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on symptoms and physical examination. When necessary, tests such as breath tests for SIBO, gastric emptying studies, abdominal imaging, or laboratory workups may be used to identify underlying causes or rule out structural disease.

Treatment focuses on addressing underlying factors and symptom relief. Dietary adjustments (for example, reducing high-FODMAP foods, smaller meals, and limiting carbonated beverages) can help. Treatments may include improving gut motility, treating constipation, managing SIBO if present, and using anti-gas or anti-foaming agents. In post-surgical gas bloat, management aims at dietary modification and, in select cases, surgical consultation.

Prognosis varies; many cases improve with targeted management, while others may be chronic. See also dyspepsia, bloating, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.