Common Causes Of Frequent Bloating And How To Address Them

Bloating is a common digestive issue that many people experience from time to time. One of the primary reasons for constant bloating is impaired digestion and absorption of food. This is especially common among older adults, as gastrointestinal motility tends to decrease with age. When the digestive system slows down, food can remain in the stomach or intestines longer than normal, leading to gas buildup and a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.

Diet plays a significant role in digestive health. Consuming heavy, fatty, or hard-to-digest meals can contribute to bloating. To reduce discomfort, it's advisable to eat easily digestible foods and avoid spicy, cold, or overly processed items. Additionally, certain food intolerances such as lactose or gluten sensitivity can also cause bloating and should be considered when evaluating dietary habits.

However, persistent bloating should not be ignored. It can sometimes indicate underlying gastrointestinal conditions such as chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even more serious issues like gastrointestinal cancers. If bloating lasts for weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, nausea, or changes in bowel habits, it's important to seek medical advice.

In such cases, visiting a local hospital for a comprehensive gastrointestinal evaluation is highly recommended. Diagnostic procedures like gastroscopy or colonoscopy may be necessary to identify the root cause and begin appropriate treatment. Early detection and management can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications.