What Causes Excessive Gas And Bloating Along With Weight Gain

Posted on Thu, 27 Aug 2015

Question: I have had excessive gas and bloating with weight gain, about 10-15 pounds in the last 2 months. In addition for the last week or so I have had a bowel movement pretty much after every time I eat something, and it's runny to to point of being like diarrhea.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Need some details to guide you better

Detailed Answer:
Hello

My name is Dr Muhammad Ali Rauf & i will look into your problem.

I have gone through your query and would try to help you in the best possible way. There could be a number of causes for your complaint. I can guide you better if you answer following questions please:

1. since when are you having this problem?
2. Is there associated history of lower abdominal pain?
3. Is there history of alternate constipation and diarrhea? I mean for some days you have constipation and then diarrhea starts.
4. Does stool appear as loose stringy ribbon like and occurs in the morning or any time of the day?
5. Does urge to defecate increases after taking meal?
6. Are you on any medication?
7. does such symptoms appear in past as well? If yes then how did they relieve?
8. Is there history of incomplete emptying after you defecate?
9. Do you or anyone in the family has history of diabetes, hypertension or other illness?

I will be looking forward for the answer to conclude the discussion in the best interest of yours.
Thank You

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (13 minutes later)

1. The excessive bloating and weight gain started after my trip to Maryland the first week of XXXXXXX
the loose bowel.. has been going on for a little over a week.
2. I have had occasional lower abdominal pain in the past, yes.
3. Yes, when this first started, I thought it would clear itself up as it had before.
4. I wouldn't say 'stringy' but when it's not watery.. there is very little density to it and it does look kinda of ribbon-like.
5. Very much so..
6. I am currently on Celexa 20 mg 1x a day and Xanex as needed for anxiety and sleep.
7. I have not had this severe of a problem in the past.
8. I'm not sure.. I suppose occasionally.
9. I have previously been on Metformin to help with my insulin resistance, but since my A1c has been under control I am no longer taking it.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Most probably Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thank you for writing back. I have gone through your answers. My provisional diagnosis in your case will be Irritable Bowel Syndrome(IBS). There is absolutely no need to worry. Combine following general & medical advise and you will improve:

1. General:
> Stress is in everyone's life but if it overpowers you then it will start causing problem. So try to remain calm and stress free.
> Go out for a walk in the evening. Take a friend or family member and discuss your thought. It will reduce stress.
> If stress is severe then you can visit a psychologist for "Cognitive behavioral therapy" who will guide you relaxation techniques.

2. Dietary Advise:
> Take high fiber diet (peas, beans, broccoli, etc) including psyllium (ispaghul hask)
> Avoid:
* fatty food & caffeine products
* Spicy food.
* Fruits & salads for the time being.

3. Medical Advise:
> Loperamide 2 mg orally thrice a day
> If there is element of stress then i would suggest you to consult your doctor for anxiolytics.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help if not then don't forget to close the discussion and rate it.
Wishing you good health !!

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar