Several things can cause extreme stomach bloating, including any of the following:

– Celiac Disease
– Cirrhosis
– Constipation
– IBS
– Lactose Intolerance
– Ovarian Cancer
– Small intestinal bowel overgrowth

The causes of extreme stomach bloating can be severe and require emergency medical attention. In most cases, bloating can be treated with first-level treatments, with a promising prognosis.

Symptoms of bloating include:

– Abdominal distension 
– The feeling of fullness in the belly
– Gas (flatulence)
– Belching

In general, stomach bloating presents itself as an uncomfortable pressure in the abdominal region. This is typically accompanied by feelings of fullness (even when not eating much), or lack of appetite. Furthermore, belching (burping) and gas (flatulence) commonly occur alongside bloating, especially when it is caused by an overabundance of gas in the gastrointestinal tract.

There are many reasons that could be responsible for persistent, recurring stomach bloating, ranging from mild to severe. Common culprits are related to diet, but other causes are associated with underlying medical conditions. Causes of bloating include:

– Excess salt intake
– Consuming too many carbohydrates
– Overeating
– Drinking carbonated beverages like soda
– Eating too fast
– Constipation
– Consuming dairy when lactose intolerant
– Too much fructose
– Celiac disease

In most cases, stomach bloating is mild and goes away on its own without the need for professional medical intervention, but certain situations can occur due to a serious problem, necessitating emergency or urgent care. Seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur alongside or in relation to stomach bloating:

– Abdominal pain and bloating that appear suddenly
– Excessive or uncontrolled vomiting
– Blood in your vomit
– Blood in your stool
– A loss of consciousness
– No bowel movements for three days
– Uncontrolled diarrhea

The following symptoms can indicate a medical condition; make an appointment with your doctor if you experience stomach bloating and pain:

– After nearly every meal you eat
– With nausea
– With painful bowel movements
– With painful sexual intercourse

This information is a summary; if you suspect you need urgent care, seek medical attention. If you do not already have a gastroenterologist, visit the medical professionals at Vanguard Gastroenterology today.

Bloating may be serious if symptoms persist for longer than a few days, or if bloating is accompanied by the following symptoms:

– Unexplained weight loss
– Changes in bowel habits
– Diarrhea
– Blood in stool
– Needing to pass stool more frequently
– Fatigue
– Appetite changes
– Loss of appetite
– Feeling full when eating less 
– Abdominal pain
– Vomiting 
– Fever

If you experience any of these symptoms, please schedule a visit with a gastroenterologist as soon as possible.

If you are experiencing stomach bloating or abdominal pain, the medical professionals at Vanguard Gastroenterology can help you determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan that uniquely addresses your individual needs. Contact us today or book an online appointment with our bloated stomach specialist, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 233 Broadway, Suite 2750 (between Park Place and Barclay Street), New York, NY 10279. We serve patients from New York NY, Queens NY, Brooklyn NY, The Bronx NY, East Elmhurst NY, Ridgewood NY, Valley Stream NY, and Staten Island NY. We look forward to serving you!