Why Am I Always Bloated? Common Causes and When to See a Doctor

Gastroenterology
Originally Published:
May 29, 2024
Updated:
October 27, 2025
Read Time:
3 min
Author:
BMG Staff
Why Am I Always Bloated? Common Causes and When to See a Doctor

Feeling Bloated All the Time? You’re Not Alone.

Occasional bloating after a big meal is normal—but if it’s happening daily, it might point to an underlying gastrointestinal (GI) condition. Millions of Americans live with issues like IBS, GERD, or food sensitivities that cause bloating, discomfort, and fatigue.

Common GI Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Persistent bloating is often accompanied by other warning signs, such as:

  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Frequent gas or heartburn
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Unexplained weight changes
  • Difficulty swallowing

If these symptoms disrupt your daily life, it’s time to consult a provider.

Most Common Causes of Chronic Bloating

  1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Causes bloating, pain, and irregular bowel movements.
  2. GERD (Acid Reflux) – Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and fullness.
  3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Chronic inflammation from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
  4. Celiac Disease or Food Sensitivities – Triggered by gluten or lactose, causing bloating and nutrient absorption problems.
  5. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) – Excess bacteria in the small intestine leads to gas and distension.
  6. Stress and Lifestyle Factors – Anxiety, overeating, and poor hydration can all worsen digestive symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

Schedule an appointment if you experience:

  • Bloating several times a week
  • Pain that interferes with sleep or work
  • Blood in your stool
  • Rapid, unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Symptoms that persist despite diet changes

How Internal Medicine Specialists Help

At BASS Medical Group, internists and GI specialists provide:

  • Accurate diagnosis with labs, imaging, or endoscopy
  • Customized treatment plans including diet, medication, and stress management
  • Ongoing care for chronic digestive disorders

Early evaluation can identify treatable causes and help you feel comfortable again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bloating

Why do I feel bloated all the time even when I eat healthy?

Even healthy foods like beans, dairy, or cruciferous vegetables can cause bloating if your body struggles to digest them. Food sensitivities or GI disorders like IBS or SIBO may also be to blame.

When should I worry about bloating or stomach pain?

See a doctor if bloating is persistent, painful, or accompanied by weight changes, fatigue, or changes in bowel habits. These could indicate an underlying GI condition.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. BASS Medical Group does not endorse any specific tests, treatments, procedures, or opinions referenced in this content. Individual results may vary. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns or before making changes to your health regimen.