What Are the Possible Causes of Feeling Stomach Fullness Without Eating?

Family Medicine, University of California San Diego Health System

Supervised by Garrett Kneese, MD, MPH

Feeling full without eating can happen because of gas buildup, slow stomach emptying, or other digestive problems. This feeling may be linked to conditions like bloating, gastroparesis, or irritable bowel issues and if continuous or severe is cause to see a doctor.

Explanation

Sometimes your tummy feels full or bloated even when you have not eaten. This may happen when there is extra gas in your stomach. Gas can build up when your body has trouble breaking down food or when you swallow too much air. One possible cause is gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach empties more slowly than usual. When the food and liquids in the stomach move slowly, it can make you feel full longer than normal. Another reason could be a condition called functional dyspepsia, where your stomach feels uncomfortable without a clear reason. Other digestive issues like constipation or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also lead to a feeling of fullness and bloating. Your gut might be sensitive or have a hard time moving things along, which adds to the discomfort. If these feelings continue or cause worry, talking to a doctor can help find the right way to feel better.

(References)

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Mari A, Abu Backer F, Mahamid M, Amara H, Carter D, Boltin D, Dickman R. Bloating and Abdominal Distension: Clinical Approach and Management. Adv Ther. 2019 May;36(5):1075-1084. doi: 10.1007/s12325-019-00924-7. Epub 2019 Mar 16. PMID: 30879252; PMCID: PMC6824367.
Parkman HP, Hallinan EK, Hasler WL, Farrugia G, Koch KL, Nguyen L, Snape WJ, Abell TL, McCallum RW, Sarosiek I, Pasricha PJ, Clarke J, Miriel L, Tonascia J, Hamilton F; NIDDK Gastroparesis Clinical Research Consortium (GpCRC). Early satiety and postprandial fullness in gastroparesis correlate with gastroparesis severity, gastric emptying, and water load testing. Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2017 Apr;29(4):10.1111/nmo.12981. doi: 10.1111/nmo.12981. Epub 2016 Oct 25. PMID: 27781342; PMCID: PMC5367988.

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