Understanding Bloatedness: Common Causes and Remedies
- Melissa Teo Surgery
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
Are you having a persistent feeling of distension in your tummy? Honestly, this is one of the most common reasons why patients see their doctor – stomach bloating! A bloated stomach feels tight, full, and can be painful. You might feel bloated even if you don’t have a distended abdomen. Bloating is usually a digestive problem, though hormones and stress also play a part. Sometimes, an underlying medical condition may be the cause.
An easy way to remember what the common causes of bloating are the SIX Fs – Flatulence, Fat, Fluid, Feces, Fetus and Fatal Growth.
1. Flatulence – you are full of Air!
The most common reason for this is usually related to your diet. A diet rich in fibre is good, but it can occasionally result in excessive gas formation, making you feel distended. If this is the reason, you may find yourself burping or passing gas more than usual.
2. Fat – have you just put on some weight?
Your stomach bloating may be due to weight gain; however, it is important to ensure that your doctor conducts a thorough medical check before assuming this. Going through your dietary changes and lifestyle would also be useful to ascertain if this is the reason for your bloating.
3. Fluid – something is causing liquid to build up in your tummy
There are serious and less serious problems that can result in liquid collecting in your tummy. The serious conditions include cancer and infections; hence it is important to find out what the cause is. Issues with the lymphatic system can also lead to fluid accumulation.
4. Faeces - you are constipated and have not been pooping properly
Constipation generally means passing fewer than three stools a week or having a difficult time passing stool. It is a common problem, and is often due to a lack of fibre, fluids and exercise. Other medical conditions or certain medicines can also cause constipation. It is important to make sure that the constipation is not due to a blockage of the intestines.
5. Foetus – could you be pregnant?
Sexually active females of reproductive age may have to consider this possibility. A simple urine pregnancy test can be done to check for this. It may sound absurd, but there have been cases of patients undergoing a scan for abdominal distension and discovering that they are pregnant.
6. Fatal growth – a tumour maybe causing your symptoms
This is not common but must be considered if your symptoms are persistent and not improving. Seeking medical attention with a trusted doctor to ensure that your symptoms are taken seriously and you go through the correct investigations is important.
We hope this article helps you understand more about stomach bloating, and encourage you to seek early medical attention if you are suffering from this symptom. Our specialists are available to help you and speak to you on your concerns.
Dr Grace Tan was interviewed on Kiss 95 about this same topic. You can access her interview here - http
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