Stomach bloating: Five signs your bloating is something far more serious
Easy Ways to Live Well: Steph McGovern discusses bloating
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Most of us have gotten a bit of belly bloat at some point in our lives, whether after eating too quickly or downing one too many beers. Bloating is usually nothing to worry about and generally can be attributed to poor diet, an intolerance or underlying gut problems. Some people find they bloat when stressed or before, during or after their menstrual cycle. What are the five signs your bloating could be something more serious?
Five potential warning signs indicating your bloating could be more serious include:
- Weight loss
- Changes in bathroom habits
- Fatigue
- Appetite changes
- Continual bloating
Weight loss
If a person loses more than 5 percent of their body weight in six months to a year’s time and have no explanation for it, they should definitely see a doctor, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Extreme and quick weight loss could be a sign of colon, ovarian, lung or pancreatic cancer, as well as an overactive thyroid, diabetes, or liver disease.
Weight loss while being bloated can seriously drain a person’s energy too.
Changes in bathroom habits
Sudden changes in bathroom habits are often harmless, however, they can indicate an underlying health condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
“Significant changes in the frequency of bowel movements or the appearance of faeces can indicate a problem, particularly when these changes accompany other symptoms including diarrhoea, constipation or abdominal pain,” warned Medical News Today.
Change in bathroom habits can mean almost anything including a change in frequency, consistency or the calibre of the stools.
Fatigue
Bloating and fatigue can occur due to a wide range of causes.
Temporary explanations can include eating rich or salty meals, eating too much, or short-term stress, said Medical News Today.
The site added: “Longer-term causes include conditions such as IBS, SIBO, and gastroparesis.”
Appetite changes
“If you’re starting to feel full when eating less or find your appetite isn’t as much as it used to be, then speak to your GP about your symptoms, said Now Patient.
Continual bloating
Now Patient advised: “If you have bloating which doesn’t seem to reside and/or is really painful then again it is advisable to get advice from your GP.”
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