Bloating can result from various factors, including:

• Dietary habits:
  • Eating too quickly or overeating
  • Consuming carbonated drinks
  • Eating high-fat or gas-producing foods (such as beans, lentils, broccoli, and cabbage)
  • Consuming artificial sweeteners
• Digestive disorders:
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Celiac disease
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
  • Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
• Other factors:
  • Swallowing air while eating or drinking
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Hormonal changes (such as those during menstruation)
  • Certain medications (such as antibiotics and pain relievers)

Managing bloating often involves dietary and lifestyle changes. Some effective strategies include:

• Adjusting your diet:
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones.
  • Avoid high-fat, fried, and gas-producing foods.
  • Limit carbonated drinks and artificial sweeteners.
  • Identify and avoid food intolerances or triggers.
• Improving digestion:
  • Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly.
  • Avoid talking while eating to reduce air swallowing.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Incorporating physical activity:
  • Engage in regular exercise to help move gas through the digestive tract.
• Using over-the-counter remedies:
  • Simethicone-based products can help reduce gas.
  • Probiotics can improve gut health and reduce bloating.
  • Herbal teas (such as peppermint or ginger tea) can soothe the digestive system.

While bloating is often harmless, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits (such as constipation or diarrhea)
• Signs of an underlying health condition (such as blood in stool or persistent heartburn)
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent nausea and vomiting

For more information about managing bloating and its underlying causes, contact Digestive System Healthcare to schedule a consultation with our specialists.

Upper endoscopy is generally safe and complications are rare. Potential risks include:

• Perforation: Rarely, the intestinal wall may be punctured, requiring surgical repair.
• Bleeding: In some cases, minor bleeding may occur at the biopsy site but can usually be managed during the procedure.

Your gastroenterologist will discuss any specific concerns and provide personalized guidance based on your individual health status and procedure findings.

For more information about upper endoscopy or to schedule a consultation, please contact Digestive System Healthcare. Our specialists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and ensuring your digestive health needs are met with expertise and compassion.