Bloating: Practical Information and When to Get Help

Bloating is common, but recurring or worsening symptoms should not be dismissed or automatically attributed to one food.

Keep track of the pattern

Note when symptoms occur, what else you are experiencing and any recent changes to medicines or supplements. This can help you explain the problem to a pharmacist or GP.

When to contact your GP

The NHS advises seeing a GP for regular bloating, bloating that continues despite dietary changes, or bloating alongside unintended weight loss or blood in your stool.

Urgent symptoms

Bloating with severe sudden abdominal pain, vomiting blood or severe breathing difficulty requires emergency help. Other symptoms can require urgent GP or NHS 111 advice. Check the full guidance on the NHS bloating page.

Do not rely on a product claim

A probiotic or other food supplement cannot diagnose the cause of bloating. Seek appropriate advice before using a product to manage persistent symptoms.