Bloating: analysis of the origin of the symptom

Abstract

The prevalence of abdominal gas – related symptoms in general population is 10–30%. All the causes of bloating can be divided into the following categories: abnormality of gastric accommodation or evacuation, aerophagia, carbohydrates malabsorption and intestinal bacterial overgrowth, excessive consumption of foods rich in fructose, oligo-, di-, monosaccharides, visceral hypersensitivity, abnormalities in peristaltic activity and abdominal muscles tone with irregular gas distribution. To clarify the origin of symptoms, it is important to assess the symptoms severity, localization of the abdominal distention, their relationship to food intake and the bowel function (the presence of constipation testifies the delay of bowel movements), concomitant pathology. Abdominal ultrasound and CT help to detect other causes of abdominal distention such as excessive fat development, tumors and cysts. Radioopaque markers study helps to evaluate the rate of colonic transit while hydrogen breath tests – to diagnose disaccharide intolerance and intestinal bacterial overgrowth. In some cases it is reasonable to exclude celiac disease, hypothyroidism, electrolyte disorders. In the treatment of bloating the correct nutrition and physical activity are of special importance. Complete exclusion of FODMAPs is not recommended. Alpha-galactosidase, anti-foamy agents, peppermint oil preparations, prokinetics, laxatives and probiotics, intestinal antiseptics and non-absorbable antibiotics and agents reducing the severity of visceral hypersensitivity can the used. A natural approach to reduce visceral hypersensitivity is to increase the intestinal short-chain fatty acids using prebiotics, psyllium and butyrate-containing food supplements. Butyrate supports colonocyte nutrition and differentiation, provides anti-inflammatory activity and modulates the functions of neurons and microglia.

Keywords

• bloating
• visceral hypersensitivity
• butyrate