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Published on: 8/20/2026

What are the common causes of a bloated stomach?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

A bloated stomach is often caused by eating gas-producing foods (like beans, dairy, or carbonated drinks), swallowing air while eating or drinking, or underlying digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or food intolerances. While occasional bloating is normal, persistent or painful bloating may signal a condition that needs attention.

Because bloating has many possible causes—from harmless to serious—identifying the source is the first step toward relief. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what's driving your bloating and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

A bloated stomach is when your tummy feels full and tight, like a balloon. This can happen for several reasons.

Common Causes:

  1. Diet: Eating foods that produce gas, like beans or carbonated drinks, can cause bloating.
  2. Swallowing Air: Sometimes, when we eat or drink too fast, we swallow air, which can make us feel bloated.
  3. Digestive Issues: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or constipation can lead to bloating.

Other Factors:

  • Hormones: Some people feel bloated because of hormonal changes, especially women during their menstrual cycle.
  • Gut Bacteria: The bacteria in our gut can also play a role in how much gas is produced, affecting bloating.

Understanding what causes your bloating can help in finding ways to feel better. If bloating happens often or is painful, try our free AI symptom checker to help identify potential causes, and consider talking to a healthcare professional.

(References)

  • Lacy BE, Cangemi D, & Vazquez-Roque M. (2021). Management of Chronic Abdominal Distension and Bloating. Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology : the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association, 32246999.

  • Azpiroz F, & Malagelada JR. (2005). Abdominal Bloating. Gastroenterology, 16143143.

  • Seo AY, Kim N, & Oh DH. (2013). Abdominal bloating: pathophysiology and treatment. Journal of neurogastroenterology and motility, 24199004.

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