When bloating may be something serious

Bloating: It’s that uncomfortable, overly full feeling in your gut caused by too much air or gas. Usually, bloating is just an unpleasant sensation that passes over the course of a few hours, often caused by something you ate. Bloating can have many less serious causes, too, from swallowing air to lactose intolerance.

To ease bloating in these cases, it can help to skip carbonated drinks and other gassy foods, avoid chewing gum or smoking, and eat slowly. You may want to ask a healthcare provider (HCP) about a low-FODMAP diet, as well.

Sometimes, however, bloating can be a symptom of a more serious condition, especially if it occurs with other symptoms. You should always reach out to your HCP if you have stomach pain with your bloating, or if bloating is interfering with your day-to-day activities.

Meanwhile, here are six times bloating could indicate a serious issue.