Bloating, IBS and food-related symptoms

Overview

Bloating can feel like fullness, pressure or a swollen abdomen. It may occur with constipation, diarrhoea or discomfort, but the combination does not automatically establish irritable bowel syndrome. Persistent or changing symptoms deserve an assessment.

A food and symptom diary can help describe a pattern, although it does not prove that a particular food is the cause. Explain whether symptoms fluctuate, wake you at night or have changed from a previously diagnosed problem.

By telephone

A call may help review the history, earlier investigations and the effect on daily life. Discuss bowel habits, pain, appetite, stress, medicines and any restrictions you have already tried. If you have an IBS diagnosis, bring the previous plan and explain which part is no longer working for you.

Ask whether testing for another condition is appropriate before beginning a restrictive diet. Coeliac assessment is particularly relevant to some ongoing bowel symptoms. If you have already removed gluten, tell the doctor so that the testing implications can be discussed.

What cannot be done remotely

A telephone consultation cannot examine a swollen abdomen or exclude every cause of symptoms. IBS assessment may include blood or stool tests to look for other explanations. Coeliac testing can become inaccurate when gluten is excluded; discuss this before changing your diet during investigation.

A negative blood test does not always end a coeliac investigation if symptoms persist. Specialist assessment may still be needed. Avoid using an IBS label to explain bleeding, unexplained weight loss or a new lump without review.

What to prepare

• Describe bowel changes, pain and whether bloating is persistent or intermittent.
• Bring previous test results and dietary advice if available.
• List foods excluded and any supplements or non-prescription products.
• Mention bleeding, weight loss, family history and new symptoms.

Sources

• NHS: bloating
• NHS: IBS assessment
• NHS: coeliac diagnosis