​​

Occasional bloating after a large meal or certain foods is normal. But persistent, severe, or debilitating bloating and gas — especially when accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation — is not. These symptoms often point to an underlying GI condition that is treatable once properly diagnosed.

​

Common Causes of Persistent Bloating

​​

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — bloating is the most bothersome symptom for many IBS patients

• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) — excess bacteria in the small intestine fermenting carbohydrates

• Celiac disease — gluten triggers gas, bloating, and diarrhea

• Lactose or fructose intolerance — malabsorption causes fermentation and gas

• Gastroparesis — delayed stomach emptying causes bloating and fullness

• Constipation — slowed transit leads to gas buildup

• Inflammatory bowel disease — less common cause of bloating

​

Hydrogen Breath Testing for SIBO​

​​​

Advanced Gastroenterology Group offers in-office hydrogen breath testing to diagnose SIBO and carbohydrate intolerances (lactose, fructose). The test involves drinking a sugar solution and measuring hydrogen/methane in your breath at intervals. An abnormal result indicates bacterial fermentation in the small intestine. SIBO is effectively treated with targeted antibiotics such as rifaximin.​

 

Book a Bloating Evaluation in NJ — Call (908) 851-2770 or Schedule Online