Almost everyone has experienced that uncomfortable sensation of a bloated stomach at some point in their lives. Whether it’s from overeating, gas, or certain food intolerances, a bloated feeling can be quite common and usually resolves on its own.

However, there are instances when bloating might be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. In this article, we will explore the signs that indicate your stomach bloating is more than just a bloated feeling.

1. Persistent Bloating

If you constantly feel bloated for an extended period, it may be a cause for concern. While occasional bloating is normal, persistent bloating that lasts for weeks or months could indicate an underlying condition.

Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even certain cancers can lead to chronic bloating.

2. Severe Pain or Cramping

Apart from the bloated feeling, if you experience intense pain or cramping in your abdomen, it may be a sign that something more serious is going on.

Severe pain that significantly impacts your daily life or is accompanied by other symptoms like blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or fever requires immediate medical attention.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

If your bloating is accompanied by unplanned weight loss, it could be a red flag. Unexplained weight loss, especially when combined with other digestive symptoms, could indicate an underlying condition that requires investigation.

Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or even pancreatic cancer can lead to both bloating and weight loss.

4. Changes in Bowel Habits

Pay attention to any significant changes in your bowel habits, especially if they are persistent.

Alternating between diarrhea and constipation, or experiencing a sudden and consistent change in your bowel movements, along with bloating, could indicate a more serious condition. These changes may be a sign of IBS or other digestive disorders.

5. Blood in Stool

Finding blood in your stool can be alarming, and it should never be ignored. While it can be caused by benign conditions like hemorrhoids, persistent blood in the stool should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.

It can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or even colorectal cancer.

6. Unrelenting Fatigue

Experiencing chronic fatigue in addition to bloating may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Diseases such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease can lead to malabsorption of essential nutrients, resulting in fatigue and other symptoms.

If you find that despite adequate rest and proper nutrition, your fatigue persists, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

7. Abdominal Distention

While bloating can make your stomach appear larger than usual, abdominal distention goes beyond that. Abdominal distention refers to a significant increase in the size of the abdomen, often accompanied by discomfort or pain.

It can be caused by conditions like liver disease, ascites, or even ovarian cysts. If your bloating is associated with an unusually enlarged abdomen, it’s crucial to seek medical advice.

8. Nausea and Vomiting

Experiencing nausea and vomiting along with bloating can indicate an issue beyond a simple gastrointestinal disturbance. Conditions such as gastroparesis, where the stomach does not empty properly, or intestinal obstruction can lead to these symptoms.

If your bloating is accompanied by persistent nausea and vomiting, it’s essential to seek urgent medical attention.

9. Difficulty Swallowing

If you notice difficulty or pain while swallowing along with bloating, it may indicate an issue within your esophagus or upper digestive tract.

Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal stricture, or even certain tumors can cause these symptoms. Difficulty swallowing should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

10. New Onset Bloating in Older Adults

While bloating can affect individuals of all ages, new-onset bloating in older adults should be taken seriously. In some cases, it can be an indication of more severe conditions such as ovarian cancer.

If you or a loved one experiences sudden abdominal bloating in later stages of life, prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider is crucial.