New Delhi. If after eating food your stomach suddenly swells like a balloon and this problem bothers you again and again, then it is not right to ignore it every time considering it as common gas. Sometimes flatulence can be caused by eating too much food, constipation, gas or swallowing too much air during meals, but if bloating persists and is accompanied by symptoms like stomach ache, constipation, diarrhea, weight loss or change in appetite, then there may be some other health problem behind it. According to experts, flatulence is not a disease in itself but can be a sign of some process going on in the body. Therefore, it is important to understand the real cause of this long-lasting problem.
The most common cause of flatulence is considered to be increase in gas in the digestive system. Certain foods can cause excess gas in the intestines, while eating too fast or swallowing too much air while talking can also cause bloating. Apart from this, in case of constipation, the stomach may feel heavy and bloated due to accumulation of stool in the intestines. Some people have trouble digesting milk or other foods, which can also increase bloating.
According to gastroenterologists, Irritable Bowel Syndrome i.e. IBS can also be an important reason for frequent flatulence. In this condition, abdominal pain along with flatulence and change in defecation habits may be seen. Some people suffer from persistent constipation while others may suffer from frequent diarrhea. Stress, disturbances in eating habits and other problems related to the digestive system can also increase its symptoms. If there is a change in the pattern of defecation along with stomach pain for a long time, then it is important to get checked by a doctor.
The problem of flatulence can also be related to celiac disease. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system starts damaging the small intestine after consuming gluten. Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye. In this condition, problems like flatulence, diarrhea, stomach problems and weight loss can also occur. In such cases, tests and necessary changes in diet are made as per the doctor's advice.
In some cases, a continuously expanding stomach can also be a sign of liver disease. In severe liver problems, fluid may accumulate inside the abdomen, which is called ascites. Due to this, the stomach may gradually appear enlarged and the stomach may feel heavy or tight. Along with this, symptoms like swelling in the feet, skin or yellowness in the eyes, weakness and loss of appetite can also be seen.
Therefore, if the problem of flatulence occurs occasionally and is cured by changes in normal diet, then there is no need to worry too much. But if bloating is persistent or is accompanied by rapid weight loss, blood in the stool, frequent vomiting, severe stomach pain or other unusual symptoms, then there should be no delay in consulting a doctor. Instead of suppressing the problem with only home remedies, it is more important to investigate its real cause. Identifying the cause and treating it at the right time can reduce the risk of many serious health problems.