You wake up and your stomach is stretched tight as if there were a baby in it. Except there is one. Your food baby. This uncomfortable sensation of fullness and distension in the abdomen has earned a notorious reputation as the big bad monster lurking in our digestive system. However, is bloating truly the villain we've made it out to be, or does it serve a natural purpose in certain instances? Dr Sreenivass B J, medical oncologist and gastrointestinal cancer specialist, HCG Cancer Hospital, Bangalore, explained that though bloating itself is not inherently evil, it can be a symptom of underlying health issues, including certain types of cancers. The societal focus on flat tummies might have amplified the concern around bloating, elaborated Dr M S Sandeep, consultant gastroenterologist, Chinmaya Mission Hospital, Bangalore, but it's important to distinguish between normal digestive variations and symptoms that might indicate a deeper issue. "Bloating can be a natural response to certain foods, eating habits, or temporary imbalances in gut bacteria." The major cause of bloating for most people often lies in dietary choices – consuming high-fibre foods, carbonated beverages, or large meals, according to Dr Sandeep, who added that how you eat – eating quickly or not chewing properly – can contribute to it. "Addressing these dietary habits, staying hydrated, and incorporating physical activity into your routine can significantly help manage bloating. Probiotics may also be beneficial in maintaining gut health and reducing bloating," Dr Sandeep said. How do you know if bloating is a serious issue for you? To determine if bloating is a significant issue for you, consider the frequency, intensity, and associated symptoms. Occasional bloating is normal, especially after certain meals. However, if bloating is frequent, severe, or accompanied by symptoms like pain, drastic changes in bowel habits, or weight loss, it may indicate a chronic condition. "Chronic bloating can be a symptom of conditions like IBS or food intolerances and warrants further medical evaluation," said Dr Sandeep. Dr Sreenivas added that it can also be a symptom of gastrointestinal cancers, in some cases. "It might be a symptom of a tumour pressing on the digestive tract or fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites). Managing bloating caused by cancer involves treating the underlying malignancy and its symptoms through appropriate cancer therapies prescribed by healthcare professionals," he explained. When should you go to the doctor? Seek medical attention if bloating persists, worsens over time, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, severe abdominal pain, persistent fatigue, or changes in bowel habits. In the context of cancer, early detection and diagnosis significantly impact treatment outcomes, so timely evaluation is crucial when persistent bloating raises concern for an underlying malignancy.
