6 serious causes of bloating you should never ignore, according to Gastroenterologist

Frequent bloating is not always indigestion — a doctor explains six serious medical conditions that can cause it and why timely consultation is crucial. (Image: Pexels)

Bloating is a common health issue that is often dismissed as simple indigestion. Nevertheless, persistent or severe bloating might signal serious issues like IBS, food intolerances, bacterial overgrowth, or even tumours. Gastroenterologist says it’s important to seek medical advice to avoid complications and ensure timely treatment.

While home remedies may work well for occasional bloating, frequent bloating might require prompt attention, as it may be an early sign of something more serious. Speaking to Moneycontrol, Dr Anukalp Prakash, Director of Gastroenterology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram said that many people ignore bloating thinking it is just a reaction to food or overeating.

“Yet, sometimes it’s a symptom of underlying disorders that require medical care.” he shares. "If your bloating comes with abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or weight loss, it’s time to take notice. In such cases, bloating might be your body’s way of telling you that your body needs attention", says Dr Prakash.

Dr Prakash shares six serious causes of bloating you should not ignore:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

If your stomach pain is paired with alternating diarrhoea and constipation, IBS might be the cause. “IBS affects gut function and often needs a combination of diet changes and medication,” informs Dr Prakash.

Food intolerances and celiac disease

Lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity can cause gas and bloating. Lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity can cause gas and bloating. In celiac disease, gluten triggers immune damage to the small intestine, risking nutrient deficiencies if left untreated.

Also Read: Gastroenterologist reveals the 7 toilet mistakes that are causing you harm and what you should do instead

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis causes chronic inflammation. Along with bloating, symptoms, like fatigue, diarrhoea, and blood in stools, demand timely medical check-ups.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

Excess bacteria in the small intestine tend to ferment food and produce  gas and bloating. This condition can cause malnutrition and require antibiotics or dietary treatment.

Ovarian or abdominal tumours

Women, those who face regularly experience unexplained chronic bloating, need to get themselves checked immediately. Such bloating may be a sign of ovarian cancer or other tumours. Unintended weight-loss and pelvic pain are warning signs that require immediate investigation.

Also Read: Stomach Cancer: Gastroenterologist says these 6 symptoms are easily mistaken for bloating or gas

Liver or pancreatic disease

Conditions like liver cirrhosis or pancreatic insufficiency can cause fluid build-up. It may seem like bloating, but signal serious health issues.

If bloating gets worse, happens frequently, or is paired with worrying symptoms like weight loss, blood in stools, or severe pain, consult a specialist. “Early diagnosis not only eases discomfort but can prevent complications and serious illnesses in future.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.