When Bloating Becomes Severe
February 07, 2023
When bloating becomes severe and ongoing, that's a good time to see your doctor.
According to Bryan Curtin, M.D., MHSc, a Board Certified gastroenterologist and Director of The Center for Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility at Mercy's Institute for Digestive Health and Liver Disease, it is important to watch for the physical distension of the abdomen or if bloating and pain are recurring.
"Number one is constipation. It is sort of underestimated as a symptom because chronic constipation can lead to a feeling of fullness. One of the first things I ask patients is what their bowl movements are like," Dr. Curtin said.
Dr. Curtin noted that if constipation is not the cause, then they check food intolerance, like with milk or fructose.
About Mercy
Founded in 1874 in Downtown Baltimore by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Medical Center is a 183-licensed bed, acute care, university-affiliated teaching hospital. Mercy has been recognized as a high-performing Maryland hospital (U.S. News & World Report); has achieved an overall 5-Star quality, safety, and patient experience rating (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services); is A-rated for Hospital Safety (Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade); and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Magnet™ hospital. Mercy Health Services is a not-for-profit health system and the parent company of Mercy Medical Center and Mercy Personal Physicians.
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