Abdominal bloating, medically known as Aerophagia is a symptom that can appear at any age, generally associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders or organic diseases, but can also appear alone. The person feels a full and tight abdomen. Despite this term is usually used interchangeably with abdominal distension, these symptoms might have different pathophysiological processes, which are not fully understood. ‘Bloating’ is not same as water retention, but the two terms are often used interchangeably.
Bloating (aerophagia) is the condition of your belly feeling swollen after eating. It is usually caused by excess gas production, and/or disturbances in the movement of the muscles of the digestive system. This can cause increased pressure and discomfort, and can sometimes make the stomach look bigger.
Most of us have experienced the feeling of being bloated, when your tummy is stretched, puffy and uncomfortable. It often happens after a big weekend or over a festive season. But if you are experiencing persistent bloating, it may be caused by a digestive problem or issues with your diet.
Food intolerance may also cause bloating if your gut does not empty correctly, if the food causes gas to be trapped, or if you generate too much gas as a response to the food. Wheat or gluten, as well as dairy items, are the most frequent felons.