What Causes Abdominal Bloating Inspite Of Being Diagnosed With IBS?

Posted on Fri, 27 Feb 2015

Question: I was recently diagnosed with IBS. I have limiting my intake of food and trying to eat foods that will not make me more bloated than I am right now. I gained a couple pounds, however yesterday I limited myself to a liquid diet and I gained 2 pounds overnight. Is this due to the bloating and water retention? Is it normal to gain weight with IBS even though you barely eat anything?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Multiple reasons for weight gain..

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I went through the details and I understand your concern.

Abdominal bloating is a common symptom of IBS. However water retention (edema) or weight gain isn't. In presence of indigestion, abdominal bloating, weight gain as symptoms, I will consider it worthwhile to rule out hormonal disturbances. Thyroid disturbance and menopause related disturbance are couple of condition that should be considered. Have you discussed about these with your doctor?

Hope this is helpful. Let me know if you need clarifications.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Prasad J (55 minutes later)

I had a complete hysterectomy about 4 years ago. I just had complete blood work done and all results came back normal. I have no other symptoms besides bloating, and alternating diarrhea /constipation and pain in my abdomen in the naval area, and sometimes lower abdomen. I have been trying to have only jello, water, and chicken broth in order to give my digestive tract a rest. This is the second day I've done this and I feel a little better than yesterday, but no major improvement. I have a family history of crohns disease (my aunt), diverticulitis (My sister) and my grandfather had some sort of similar issue, not exactly sure which it is. I have an appointment with a gastroenterologist on Monday, but have not been given any advice or instructions on how to deal with this until then.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Exercise with diet change is my suggestion until you see doctor..

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I am pleased to know you have had blood work up done. In that case, hypothyroidism, high blood sugar and menopause associated conditions sees ruled out.
I don't see bloody stool in the list of symptoms which also makes Crohn's less likely. Perhaps the digestive complaints are related to IBS and I feel gastroenterologist will work up on the same lines. He/she may review blood reports and suggest ultrasound scan + colonoscopy before deciding treatment.

Until you see the doctor on Monday, my suggestions are:
1. Continue modifying diet. You should also consider plenty of vegetables (fibre rich products) and good amount of fluids.
2. Start exercise especially aerobic exercise. It helps improve peristaltic movements of intestine.
3. Try bringing down weight. It helps in almost all cases. You may not be able to cut down weight overnight; but with gradual and persistent trials over a period of few months, it is still possible.
4. Add antacid syrup about 5ml half an hour before food - twice or thrice a day.
5. Stop worrying too much. Stress and worries are detrimental factors of this condition.

Hope you will get better soon.

Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T