Why Am I Always Bloated? Top Causes, Treatments & When to See a GI Doctor

Bloating is one of the most common digestive complaints, affecting nearly 30% of adults (American College of Gastroenterology). It’s that uncomfortable fullness, tightness, or swelling in your abdomen—sometimes with visible distension.

While occasional bloating is normal, chronic bloating can signal an underlying issue. At Digestive Disease Care (DDC), our board-certified gastroenterologists help patients uncover the root cause and find lasting relief.

1. Food Triggers (High-FODMAP Foods & Intolerances)

Certain foods ferment in the gut, producing excess gas. Common culprits:

• Beans, lentils, broccoli (high-FODMAP foods)
• Dairy (if lactose intolerant)
• Carbonated drinks & artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol)
• Gluten or fructose (in sensitive individuals)
• Expert Tip: Try a low-FODMAP elimination diet (studies show 70% improvement in IBS-related bloating).

Want to learn more about managing IBS-related bloating? Check out our post on Understanding IBS.

2. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

When bad bacteria overgrow in the small intestine, they ferment food prematurely, causing bloating, gas, and diarrhea. A hydrogen breath test can diagnose SIBO.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Over 70% of IBS patients report bloating as a top symptom. It frequently becomes worse due to stress and specific foods.

4. Constipation

A backed-up colon traps gas, leading to bloating. Boosting fiber intake, staying hydrated, and staying active can be beneficial.

5. Swallowing Air (Aerophagia)

Eating too fast, chewing gum, or drinking through straws introduces excess air into the digestive tract.

6. Hormonal Changes (Especially in Women)

Many women experience bloating before/during their period due to fluid retention.

7. Gastroparesis (Delayed Stomach Emptying)

Common in diabetics, this causes food to sit too long, leading to bloating and nausea.

8. Serious Conditions (When to Worry)

Though uncommon, ongoing bloating combined with weight loss, blood in the stool, or vomiting may signal:

• Celiac disease
• Ovarian cancer
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

See a GI doctor immediately if you have these red flags.

At DDC, we use evidence-based testing tailored to your symptoms:

• Breath tests (for SIBO, lactose intolerance)
• Blood work (celiac, thyroid, inflammation markers)
• Stool tests (gut infections, pancreatic function)
• Imaging (ultrasound, CT scan if structural issues are suspected)
• Endoscopy/Colonoscopy (if IBD, ulcers, or cancer is a concern)

1. Try a Low-FODMAP Diet (Guided by a GI nutritionist)
2. Eat Slowly & Avoid Carbonation (Reduces swallowed air)
3. Probiotics & Digestive Enzymes (For SIBO or food intolerances)
4. Stay Active & Hydrated (Helps motility and constipation)
5. Manage Stress (Mindfulness, yoga—stress worsens IBS bloating)

The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) recommends evaluation if bloating is:

• Bloating lasts >3 weeks
• Severe pain or weight loss
• Blood in stool or vomiting
• Family history of GI cancers

Don’t suffer in silence—schedule a consultation at DDC today!

• Top-rated gastroenterologists specializing in bloating disorders
• Advanced diagnostics (SIBO breath tests, motility studies)
• Personalized treatment plans (not just temporary fixes)

Visit: www.digestivediseasecare.com
Call: 516-204-4242

Q: Can stress cause bloating?

A: Yes! Stress interferes with gut movement, aggravating IBS and causing increased bloating.

Q: What’s the best test for bloating?

A: It depends—breath tests (SIBO), blood tests (celiac), or stool tests are common first steps.

Q: When is bloating a sign of cancer?

A: If bloating is persistent + paired with weight loss or appetite changes, see a doctor ASAP