Bloating: Common but not fully understood

Bloating is a sensation of having a full stomach. Distension is a visible or measurable increase in belly size. People often describe stomach symptoms as bloating, especially if those symptoms don't seem to be relieved by belching, passing gas or having a bowel movement.

The exact connection between intestinal gas and bloating is not fully understood. Many people with bloating symptoms don't have any more gas in the intestine than do other people. Many people, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome or anxiety, may just have a greater sensitivity to stomach symptoms and intestinal gas.

Nonetheless, bloating may be relieved by the behavioral changes that reduce belching, or the dietary changes that reduce flatus.