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What Causes Upper Stomach Bloating

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Why Do I Have Abdominal Pain When I Bend Over

Causes of severe Stomach Aches – Dr. Bindu Suresh

Abdominal pain when bending over is typically caused by GERD. This condition causes discomfort and burning after eating. Another potential cause of pain while bending over is an inguinal hernia. This occurs when the soft tissue in the abdomen protrudes through muscles, causing pain and other symptoms.

How Do You Know If Bloating In Upper Abdomen Is Serious

If bloating in the upper abdomen occurs when youre not eating any high-fiber foods, then something more serious may be going on, such as intestinal obstruction or diverticulitis .

Bloating can also happen if you have a gas-producing infection, such as bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. Bloating with upper abdominal hardening may indicate gallstones or pancreatic cancer.

If upper abdomen bloating is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, blood in your stool or vomit, and weight loss, then its time to see your doctor immediately.

Bloating does not always mean that something serious is going on, but we recommend speaking with a medical professional.

When To See A Healthcare Provider

As noted earlier, the symptom of abdominal bloating is most commonly caused by conditions that are more of a nuisance than life-threatening. That said, it is often the first symptom of ovarian cancer which is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women and often diagnosed when it is “too late,” at least to be curable.

Whether your symptoms are due to a “serious” cause or not, it is important to see your healthcare provider. So-called “nuisance symptoms” can interfere with your quality of life, and by that measure, are not just a nuisance.

If your symptoms do not improve with whatever treatment is recommended, talk to your healthcare provider or seek out a second opinion. In our overworked, over-busy society, it’s important to be your own advocate in your medical care, no matter what your symptoms or the condition that is responsible.

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Bloating And Ovarian Cancer

Even though ovarian cancer is certainly not the most common cause of abdominal bloatingand is down on the listit is an important cause of abdominal bloating. Among people who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, it’s been found that this bloating is often attributed to something else, such as middle-age spread or winter weight gain.

While ovarian cancer isn’t the most common cause of abdominal swelling and bloating, these symptoms are one of the more common symptoms of ovarian cancer. It is also a symptom that is most ignored. The bloating may be so bad that one can’t button their pants, or even have to go up a size.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer may also include pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, and frequent urination, but it is also considered the silent killer. In the early stages, the only symptom may be a feeling of being full quickly when eatingin other words bloatingso it is important to make sure you get your symptoms evaluated thoroughly.

It’s also important to note that sometimes people have two conditions at the same time. For example, someone could have both irritable bowel syndrome and ovarian cancer, so trust your instinct. If your healthcare provider does not seem as concerned as you are, get a second opinion.

Ovarian cancer is not a common cancer in women, but it’s the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in womenmost likely due to the fact that the diagnosis is missed until it has progressed to the later stages of the disease.

Red Flags For Swollen Stomach And Back Pain

Best how to stop bloating after eating 57+ ideas ...

Bloating causes a distended stomach when the abdomen fills up with gas or air. This discomforting sensation can also cause pain that may be felt in the back. Together, a swollen stomach and back pain can make you feel not only distressed but perhaps a bit self-conscious as well.

The two symptoms are tied together because the back provides support and stabilizes the body. However, abdominal bloating causes pressure and pain in the area which can spread to the back. The pain may vary in severity and type from sensations of dull throbbing to sharp and pinching pain.

When the two symptoms are experienced separately they are fairly common and not usually a cause for concern. But in instances where a bloating stomach pain is also accompanied by back pain, they could be indicative of a more serious condition. These should not be taken lightly as they can include the following:

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Is Bloating A Cause For Concern

October 26, 2018 By Yenny Rojas

Weve all had that bloated, uncomfortable full belly feeling at some point. Most of the time, its perfectly normal and no cause for concern. On rare occasions, it could be an indication of a more serious problem. Unless your bloating is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and weight loss, its probably nothing to worry about. Most of the time, diet and other simple reasons such as eating a big meal or too much salt can explain the bloating youre experiencing. Lets discuss some common causes of bloating, and when bloating can be a cause for concern.

How Can I Prevent Stomach Bloating

If your stomach bloating is caused by diet or alcohol, you can help prevent it by making some lifestyle changes. Some good general guidelines include:

If the cause of your bloated stomach is something more specific, such as specific food intolerance, perimenopause or a medical condition, you might need a little help with diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Some options include:

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Research And Statistics: Who Gets Constipation And The Toll It Takes

The major risk factors for chronic constipation are being female and being elderly, according to a 2015 study published in the journal Clinical Interventions in Aging. Other studies suggest that constipation seems to be getting more common. A February 2014 study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that from 1997 to 2010, the incidence of constipation among patients released from a hospital stay more than doubled, from 21,190 patients to 48,450.

Besides being a drain on well-being, constipation is also a drain on the medical system: In a study in the same journal published in April 2015, researchers found that between 2006 and 2011, the frequency of constipation-related emergency room visits increased by 41.5 percent, from 497,034 visits to 703,391 visits, while the average cost for each patient rose by 56.4 percent, from $1,474 in 2006 to $2,306 in 2011.

Chronic constipation may lead to other difficult issues, as well. According to an article published in March 2019 in the American Journal of Managed Care, people with constipation typically have poorer general health, mental health, and social functioning compared with those without. No wonder, since the average person suffering from constipation without a cause has to try approximately four over-the-counter and two prescription medications before settling on a treatment that works.

What Can Be Done

Stomach Bloating Causes – Why?

Over-the-counter medications or a prescription from your doctor might help. Look for a medication containing alpha-D-galactosidase. It has an enzyme that breaks down indigestible sugars in vegetables and beans.

Tablets or capsules containing simethicone can also help alleviate symptoms of upper abdominal bloating. If you’re a tobacco user, it’s a good reason to quit because it has been linked to heartburn, bloating, and other digestive problems. Fortunately, bloating is a very common affliction, and most people can find a remedy at the pharmacy. Other measures, such as a change in diet, the frequency and times between meals and a change in habits are all you’ll need to do to avoid bloating.

When to Worry

Usually, temporary bloating is very common and nothing to worry about. However, if the condition persists on a regular basis, or bathroom problems are a constant battle, there might be more serious medical conditions causing your discomfort, so you’ll need to consult your physician. There could be a physical obstruction in the stomach or small intestines, and if diagnosed by your health care provider, may need to be surgically corrected. Many people already know that gas-inducing foods can cause gas, but what most people don’t suspect is an underlying chronic disease or cancer that could also be the cause.

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What We Know About Timing The Vaccines Around Ibd Meds

Many IBD patients are often concerned about how to time their vaccinations around IBD medications or other vaccinations. But Bewtra says there is no need for this and timing your IBD injections or infusions around this can do more harm than good. Its always better not to risk a disease flare-up, she says.

Additionally, if you are receiving other vaccinations, she recommends that patients wait 14 days between each. There is likely no adverse event between vaccinations, but its important for your doctors and the CDC to know what reactions, if any, you may have to the COVID-19 vaccine versus other vaccines, she says.

What Should I Eat When Bloated

Bloating can be caused by several different factors, but if you want to reduce bloating, food choices can help.

Bloating usually happens when your digestive system is out of whack and having trouble digesting certain types of food.

The following list includes nutritious foods that promote healthy digestion:

  • Ginger
  • Raw carrots
  • Lean meats, including chicken and turkey

Ginger has traditionally been used for thousands of years because it helps stimulate gastric juices, which help with the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from our food!

Drinking ginger tea before meals can help reduce tummy bloat.

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What Is Constipation Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment And Prevention

Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint, resulting in 2.5 million doctor visits annually. Generally, a person is considered constipated when they have fewer than three bowel movements a week, or their stool is difficult to pass. In total, about 16 percent of the population experience constipation symptoms, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases .

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While constipation is uncomfortable , its considered a symptom rather than a disease in itself.

Its also important to know that normal bowel habits can differ from person to person some people may pass stool three times a day others three times a week.

What Is A Bloated Stomach

10 Foods That Prevent Bloating

A bloated stomach is first and foremost a feeling of tightness, pressure or fullness in your belly. It may or may not be accompanied by a visibly distended abdomen. The feeling can range from mildly uncomfortable to intensely painful. It usually goes away after a while, but for some people, its a recurring problem. Digestive issues and hormone fluctuations can cause cyclical bloating. If your bloated stomach doesnt go away, you should seek medical care to determine the cause.

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What Causes Bloating In The Stomach

Gas

Gas is a natural byproduct of digestion, but too much intestinal gas means your digestion is gone awry. While you can ingest gasses by swallowing air or drinking carbonated beverages, these gasses mostly escape through belching before they reach your intestines. Gasses in your intestines are mostly produced by gut bacteria digesting carbohydrates .

If theres too much fermentation going on, its because too many carbohydrates werent naturally absorbed earlier in the digestive process, before reaching those gut bacteria. That could be for several reasons. Maybe you just ate too much too fast for proper digestion, or you might have a specific food intolerance or gastrointestinal disease. Some possible causes include:

Digestive Contents

These can include solids, liquids, and gas. Digestive contents can build up in your digestive system when there is a backup or restriction in your digestive tract or when the muscles that move digestive contents along are somehow impaired. Any build-up of digestive contents along the digestive tract will leave less room for normal amounts of gas to process through. It also leaves less room for other things in your abdomen, including circulatory fluids and fat, making everything feel tighter. Causes of build-up can include:

Hormones

Other Causes

What Is Bloating What Does Feeling Bloated Mean

Why am I so bloated? Abdominal bloating or “feeling bloated” is a very frequent and familiar symptom most people have experienced at some time in their lives. There are many reasons you may feel bloated. Most causes are simple, harmless, and easily treatable with over-the-counter or home remedies. Very rarely, abdominal bloating is caused by something more serious, leading to a rapid worsening of uncomfortable symptoms.

The definition of “bloated” is swelling or distension, and it usually refers to abdominal bloating, which is a distended belly. Bloating may be accompanied by burping , gas , abdominal discomfort, and a feeling of fullness. People sometimes refer to abdominal bloating as a “bloated stomach” or “bloated belly.”

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Upper Abdominal Bloating Causes: Home Remedies To Get Rid Of It

Bloating of upper abdomen occurs when too much of gas and air is trapped in stomach and intestine. Bloating increases the girth of abdomen and as a result the upper abdomen appears larger. There is a feeling of fullness, pain and discomfort in stomach. Upper abdomen bloating is a common problem experienced by many people in todays life. It is not a life threatening condition, but the condition can interfere in day to day activity of a person.

Patient experiences dull aching pain, but sometimes it can be sharp and spasmodic. Mostly pain and hardness of upper abdomen is limited up to upper part of abdomen in the stomach area, between the navel and the chest.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor

Upper Abdominal Pain And Bloating – Why Does My Upper Stomach Hurt
  • Do I need a test to diagnose lactose intolerance?
  • Why do certain foods cause my bloating when they never used to?
  • What can I do if I have diabetesand my medicine or artificial sweeteners cause bloating?
  • Could my bloating be a sign of something more serious?
  • What kind of tests will I need?
  • What kind of over-the-counter medicine can I try?

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Final Thoughts On Bloating And Abdominal Pain

The main cause of abdominal pain and bloating is thought to be gas, especially when you eat a meal or drink too quickly. The cause of bloated stomach abdominal pain is mostly related to digestion problems, which will include digestive disorders, food sensitivities or intolerances, bowel obstruction, and parasitic infection.

Other causes of abdominal bloating can include pregnancy and other hormonal changes, and cancers like ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, or non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Now that you know the potential causes of abdominal bloating, you can do something about your painful problem. The natural treatment of abdominal pain and bloating is very much related to a proper diet and lifestyle adjustments like getting exercise and reducing stress.

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What Is Abdominal Bloating

Abdominal Bloating can be defined as a protrusion of the abdomen that is usually accompanied by an uncomfortable feeling of fullness. It is the most common gastrointestinal symptom that is highly common in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders , irritable bowel syndrome , and organic disorders. This health condition may result in the stomach appearing larger than normal and clothing feeling tight around the waist.

Generally, Bloating is inadequately treated and incompletely understood. It is a subjective and common ailment that can affect patients of all ages.

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Pancreas Or Liver Disease

Our digestive system works with the support of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas that are located on the upper-right side of the stomach. Liver diseases such as untreated gallstones and hepatitis can cause pain. Inflammation of the pancreas, also known as pancreatitis, may also lead to pain.

Some other symptoms may include dark urine, vomiting, pale or white bowel movement, persistent and worsening pain, yellow skin or eyes, and nausea.

How To Get Rid Of Bloating In Upper Abdomen

Why Does My Upper Stomach Hurt? Upper Abdominal Pain And ...

Medications such as antacids are useful in certain cases to treat gases in upper abdomen. More importantly when the trouble is frequent, person has to make some changes in his daily lifestyle and eating habits. Here are few tips in eliminating stomach bloating and discomfort.

  • Avoid overeating during meals.
  • Chew your food properly.
  • While eating food take care that you do not swallow too much of air. Air which enters in such way gets entrapped in the stomach which results in bloating and pain.
  • Reduce high fiber foods in your diet if you suspect it as the cause.
  • Regularly eat yogurt and drink butter milk after meals. It contains good bacteria which help to reduce gas formation.
  • Avoid eating foods that your system is not tolerating. If the digestive system is not able to tolerate lactose containing products, avoid them.

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How Is Constipation Diagnosed

Your doctor will take a medical history and do a physical exam, most likely including a gentle rectal exam with a gloved finger. They will also likely prescribe a number of routine blood tests , as well as urine and stool tests. According to the Mayo Clinic, other diagnostic tests may include:

  • A sigmoidoscopy to examine the rectum and lower colon
  • A colonoscopy to examine the colon
  • Evaluating the speed of your anal sphincter as well as how the muscle is working
  • Evaluating how well food passes through your colon with a colonic transit study
  • Taking an X-ray of the rectum during a bowel movement
  • A procedure known as MRI defecography

Eating More Calories Than Usual

Lets face it. When youre off your schedule, sometimes the most interesting thing you can do is bake. But consuming excess calories especially those found in cookies, cakes and bread can pack on the pounds and cause your belly to bloat.

If cooking is your jam while sheltering in place, reserve high-calorie recipes for special occasions, or cut it back to one meal a week.

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