Gas and bloating are part of everyday life and most often occur after a generous meal or rich in fiber. But when they are accompanied by persistent or unusual symptoms, they can reveal a more serious digestive disorder. Here are the signals that must alert and push to consult a doctor.
When bloating reveals a digestive disease
The color and aspect of the stools are precious indicators of the state of the digestive system. “”When bloating is associated with a change in the appearance of stool or the presence of blood in the stool, this may be the sign of an inflammatory intestine disease“Explains Dr. Vivy Cusumano, gastroenterologist.
Persistent diarrhea can also be a revealing symptom. According to this specialist, it can translate an irritable colon syndrome, celiac disease or autoimmune pathology. Nutritional deficiencies are also a sign not to be overlooked. Dr Manuel Amaris, professor of hepato-gastroenterology at the University of Florida, stresses that bloating can result from anemia or a lack of iron or vitamin B12, often associated with chronic digestive diseases or with the presence of a pathogenic bacteria in the small intestine.
The signals that must alert you over time
A punctual digestive discomfort is not alarming, but if gas and bloating lasts more than two weeks, a medical consultation is essential. Meals can also become difficult to finish. “”A meal taken in reasonable quantities should not cause digestive disorders“, Recalls Professor Amaris. A loss of appetite or the feeling of being full after only a few bites can announce an underlying problem. Gynecologist Dr Britanny Davidson warns:”Gynecological cancers can have an impact on the digestive system because the internal genitals are close to certain organs of the digestive system. In some cases, gynecological cancer can lead to a slowdown in transit which manifests itself by nausea or a full -stomach feeling after only two or three bites“.
Finally, severe stomach cramps should encourage to react. Unlike conventional gases, these cramps can be a sign of urinary tract infection, appendicitis or kidney stones.
When gases are accompanied by disturbing symptoms
Nausea and vomiting, when they combine bloating, also require special vigilance. These symptoms are not always synonymous with serious illness, but they can be linked to the regular intake of non-stéroid anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, used frequently in self-medication. In any case, if these disorders persist, the opinion of a doctor is essential.