Bloating and nausea are commonly caused by indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and lactose intolerance. These conditions can often be treated at home, but medical attention is necessary if symptoms persist or worsen. Indigestion is caused by certain foods and digestive conditions, while irritable bowel syndrome is caused by disrupted communication between the brain and intestinal tract. Lactose intolerance is caused by consuming dairy products and can be treated by avoiding dairy.
The most common causes of bloating and nausea are indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome and lactose intolerance. Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is caused by eating certain foods and digestive conditions that are already present. Irritable bowel syndrome occurs when the colon is irritated and can only be controlled with dietary intervention and lifestyle changes. Lactose intolerance is caused by consuming dairy products, and immediate symptoms often include bloating and feeling nauseous. In most cases, these conditions can be treated at home and without prescription medication or a doctor visit.
Indigestion is descriptive of a number of symptoms that occur during or after eating. Besides bloating and nausea, other symptoms that accompany indigestion are upper abdominal pain and heartburn. Individuals suffering from indigestion often complain of feeling fuller than usual during a meal and sometimes afterward. It is often okay to wait until the symptoms subside or clear up. However, going to the hospital is a necessity if an individual experiences shortness of breath or chest pain.
Irritable bowel syndrome occurs when the brain fails to communicate effectively with the intestinal tract. Excessive stress, chemicals and hormones often disrupt the messages sent between the brain and intestinal tract, causing muscle spasms. The spasms often lead to nausea and diarrhea or constipation, making bowel movements uncomfortable. Irritable bowel syndrome is sometimes genetic, but in many cases it is the result of a weak bowel caused by an immune system disorder. Abstaining from foods known to increase the chances of irritable blower syndrome, such as beans and other gas-producing foods, can often help.
Individuals who are lactose intolerant often become aware of their condition when they experience bloating and nausea after eating a meal containing dairy products. Lactose, which is the sugar found in dairy, cannot be properly broken down by the body unless it also produces the enzyme lactase. Those who are lactose intolerant do not produce lactase and experience cramping, diarrhea and gas in addition to bloating and nausea. The body may also temporarily stop producing lactase due to the stomach flu. The best way to treat lactose intolerance is often to avoid dairy products and eat lactose-free and dairy-free products instead.
Persistent symptoms of bloating and nausea should be a cause for concern and warrant medical attention. This is especially true when dietary and lifestyle changes don’t significantly mitigate symptoms. Doctors can help rule out other diseases that could be the underlying causes of indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and lactose intolerance.
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