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What Causes Gas & Bloating?

Gas and abdominal bloating is a common condition that affects many people. In most instances, gas and bloating isn't serious, and the problem generally resolves itself within hours or days. However, these uncomfortable symptoms can develop into a chronic problem, in which sufferers deal with flatulence and abdominal tightness on a daily basis. Like most gastrointestinal conditions, gas and bloating is treatable. But to treat the condition, you'll need to identify the cause.

  1. Constipation

    • Constipation or the inability to pass a bowel movement is a common cause of gas and bloating. Several factors contribute to constipation such as a low-fiber diet, lack of physical activity and certain digestive problems (IBS or lactose intolerance). Intestinal contractions stimulate bowel movements. Constipation occurs when contractions slow down, and this often results in abdominal bloating and gas.

    Food Intolerance

    • While too little fiber often results in constipation, eating too much fiber can have a similar effect. Additionally, individuals who live with gluten allergies may experience gas and abdominal bloating after eating certain foods such as wheat, pasta and pasta. And several beans, vegetables and dairy products contain a complex carbohydrate that is difficult to digest.

    Medications

    • If food isn't the cause of gas and bloating, open your medicine cabinet and consider whether your over-the-counter or prescription medications are the culprit. Certain medications such as laxatives and antibiotic can have an affect on your digestive health and cause a host of issues such as diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, abdominal bloating and gas.

    Digestive Disorders

    • Oftentimes, gas and bloating isn't directly related to food or medications. Rather, a digestive disorder exists, which interferes with the body's ability to properly digest foods or regulate bowel movements. Common conditions include irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, gastritis or another disorder.

    Cancer

    • In women, chronic gas and abdominal bloating can signal a potentially life threatening illness such as ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late because many sufferers attribute their symptoms to other conditions. Furthermore, gas and bloating can also point to colon cancer. However, colon cancer sufferers typically experience additional symptoms such as weight loss or rectal bleeding.

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