Bloating isn't always harmless: What to know about gut health and when to seek help

SALT LAKE CITY — Bloating is common, but when does it become a sign of something more?

For Emily Karp, that meant years of pain, bloating and searching for answers.

"I noticed my stomach hurts all the time," she said.

Karp was eventually diagnosed with gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach empties food more slowly than normal.

After opening up to her primary care doctor, she was referred to gastroenterology, where she met Emily Van Komen, a nurse practitioner with Intermountain Health.

Karp, who works as a nurse herself, said finding a provider who took the time to listen and understand her concerns was a turning point.

"I was like, 'Oh wow, I actually have a plan that is addressing it,'" she said.

Bloating can have many causes

Van Komen said up to 30% of people experience bloating every day.

"We all experience it from time to time with stress, with different foods that we eat," Van Komen said.

Bloating can be associated with conditions including irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances and gastroparesis. In some cases, these symptoms can also be a sign of something more serious.

Van Komen said people should also be cautious about products and advice online that promise to improve gut health or are marketed as "gut healthy."

"Something as simple as a couple of pieces of gum can have things in it that cause bloating," she said.

Restrictive diets, supplements and "detox" products can also have downsides. Van Komen recommends talking with a health care provider or registered dietitian before making major changes to your diet.

Track your symptoms

One way to help identify potential triggers is to keep a food and symptom diary.

Van Komen recommends tracking what you eat and drink, along with your stress level and when symptoms occur.

Those details can help your provider figure out what's causing your symptoms.

When should you see a doctor?

Occasional bloating is common, but persistent symptoms shouldn't be ignored.

Warning signs can include ongoing abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, vomiting, blood in the stool or symptoms that continue despite lifestyle changes.

Karp has been working with Van Komen on a treatment plan, including medication for gastroparesis. She says she's now having more good days.

"My stomach's not going to hurt forever. I'm going to be able to eat," Karp said.

And getting those answers started with her being willing to speak up.

"Advocating for yourself, trusting yourself, being open with your provider," Karp said.

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