If you’re feeling uncomfortably full, gassy, or swollen after eating, you’re not alone. Bloating is one of the most common bowel symptoms people experience – and while it’s often harmless, persistent or severe bloating can be a sign that something’s not quite right. At The Midlands Bowel Clinic, we’re here to help you get to the bottom of what’s causing your bloating and find long-lasting relief.
What is bloating?
Bloating is a sensation of pressure, tightness or swelling in your tummy. You may notice your abdomen looks distended, feels hard, or is uncomfortable to touch. Bloating often comes and goes but can be persistent in some people. It may be accompanied by excess wind, burping, abdominal gurgling (borborygmi), or changes in bowel habit such as diarrhoea or constipation.
For many people, bloating worsens after eating and improves after passing wind or having a bowel movement.
What causes bloating?
There are many possible reasons for bloating – some simple, some more complex. Common causes include:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – a leading cause of bloating, often linked with food triggers and stress
- Food intolerances – such as lactose intolerance or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity
- Overeating or eating too quickly – which can increase swallowed air and slow digestion
- Dietary factors – including fizzy drinks, high-fat meals, or foods that ferment in the gut (like beans, onions, and cabbage)
- Constipation – trapped stools can lead to increased gas and discomfort
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) – excessive bacteria in the small bowel causing gas and bloating
- Coeliac disease – an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten
- Gynaecological issues – such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis, which can cause bloating in women
- Serious conditions – including bowel cancer or ovarian cancer, though these are much less common
When to see a bowel specialist
Occasional bloating is very common, but if it becomes persistent, painful, or starts to interfere with your daily life, it’s time to seek advice. You should also speak to a specialist if you have:
- Bloating that doesn’t go away
- Unexplained weight loss
- A change in your usual bowel habits
- Blood in your stool
- Tummy pain or discomfort
- Fatigue or low iron levels
- A family history of bowel conditions
It’s always best to get persistent bloating checked, especially if you’re over 50 or have other symptoms alongside it.
How we investigate bloating
At The The Midlands Bowel Clinic, we start with a thorough consultation to understand your symptoms and dietary habits. We may recommend:
- Blood tests – to check for coeliac disease, thyroid function, or signs of inflammation
- Stool tests – to assess for infection, inflammation or fat malabsorption
- Food intolerance testing – to identify potential triggers
- Endoscopy or colonoscopy – to examine the lining of your gut if needed
- Breath tests – to diagnose SIBO or carbohydrate malabsorption
- Imaging – such as ultrasound or MRI to rule out gynaecological or structural causes
Treatment options
Your treatment will depend on the cause of your bloating. We offer a personalised approach that may include:
- Dietary advice – including low FODMAP or exclusion diets
- Medication – to manage IBS symptoms, reduce gas, or treat infections
- Probiotics or antibiotics – for managing SIBO or gut flora imbalance
- Lifestyle support – including advice on eating habits and stress management
- Referral to a dietitian or pelvic health specialist if needed
We work with you to develop a plan that addresses your symptoms and supports long-term gut health.
Why choose The Midlands Bowel Clinic?
Our team of specialist consultants are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of digestive symptoms, including chronic bloating. We offer fast access to investigations, evidence-based treatments, and supportive, personalised care.
Contact us
If bloating is affecting your comfort or confidence, don’t suffer in silence. Contact The Midlands Bowel Clinic today to arrange a consultation with one of our experienced bowel specialists. We’re here to help you feel like yourself again.
