Bloating: Clinical Meaning

Gastritis

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, commonly caused by H. pylori infection, prolonged NSAID use, or excessive alcohol. It can be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term) and may lead to peptic ulcers if untreated.

GERD (Acid Reflux)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. Long-term untreated GERD can lead to esophageal damage.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women and often presents late due to vague symptoms. It originates in the ovaries and frequently spreads to the peritoneum before diagnosis.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine villi, impairing nutrient absorption. Symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, and fatigue; strict gluten-free diet is the only treatment.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder causing recurrent abdominal pain related to defecation, with altered stool frequency or consistency. It affects up to 15% of the population; dietary changes, stress management, and symptom-specific medications help.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula (small pouches in the colon wall) become inflamed or infected, causing left lower quadrant pain, fever, and bowel changes. Uncomplicated cases are treated with antibiotics; perforation or abscess may require surgery.

Intestinal Obstruction

Intestinal obstruction is blockage of the small or large bowel, causing abdominal pain, distension, vomiting, and inability to pass gas or stool. Adhesions and hernias are the most common causes; emergency surgery may be required.

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

SIBO occurs when excessive bacteria colonize the small intestine, causing bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malabsorption. It is diagnosed with breath testing and treated with antibiotics and dietary modification.

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is delayed gastric emptying without mechanical obstruction, causing early satiety, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Diabetes is the most common cause; prokinetic medications and dietary modifications are the mainstay of treatment.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa involves recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors (purging, laxative use, excessive exercise). Dental erosion, electrolyte abnormalities, and esophageal damage are common complications; CBT is first-line treatment.

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on or in the ovary, most of which are benign and resolve spontaneously. Symptomatic cysts cause pelvic pain, bloating, and pressure; large or persistent cysts may require surgical evaluation.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome encompasses physical and emotional symptoms appearing 1-2 weeks before menstruation, including mood changes, breast tenderness, bloating, and fatigue. Severe cases (PMDD) respond to SSRIs; lifestyle modifications help mild cases.

Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a common intestinal infection caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia, transmitted through contaminated water or food. It presents with chronic diarrhoea, bloating, and malabsorption, and is treated with metronidazole or tinidazole.

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is the inability to fully digest lactose due to insufficient lactase enzyme production. It causes digestive symptoms after dairy consumption but is manageable.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS encompasses physical and emotional symptoms occurring before menstruation, resolving with the onset of the period. It affects up to 75% of menstruating women to some degree.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMDD is a severe form of PMS causing marked emotional and physical symptoms in the week before menstruation. It significantly impairs daily functioning and responds to hormonal and psychiatric treatments.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) that form in the digestive tract become inflamed or infected. It causes abdominal pain and can lead to serious complications.