Causes of Abdominal Bloating

In traditional Chinese medicine, abdominal bloating is considered a sign of imbalance within the body. The causes may be divided into several groups.

Imbalance of Qi and Blood

The digestive system plays an important role in processing food. The circulation of qi and blood should remain balanced. When this balance is disrupted, gas may accumulate in the intestines and cause bloating.

Unsuitable Foods

Eating foods that are difficult to digest, high in fat, or likely to produce gas may contribute to abdominal bloating. Examples include beans, grains, and certain vegetables.

Stress and Emotional Factors

Stress can affect digestive function and may cause or worsen bloating.

Other Health Conditions

Certain conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastritis, or other digestive disorders, may also cause persistent abdominal bloating.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches to Abdominal Bloating

1. Diagnosis

Diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine begins with a detailed consultation to understand the patient’s symptoms and medical history.

The practitioner may ask about:

๐ Eating habits

๐ Sleep quality

๐ Bowel movements

๐ Stress and emotional health

๐ Other symptoms occurring alongside the bloating

The practitioner may also examine the pulse and observe the appearance of the tongue. The treatment plan is then selected according to the individual pattern of symptoms and imbalance.

2. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to help relieve abdominal bloating.

Specific acupuncture points may be selected to stimulate the circulation of qi, support digestive function, and reduce gas accumulation in the gastrointestinal system.

Commonly used points may include:

Zhongwan (中脘)

This point is located in the centre of the upper abdomen, approximately four cun above the navel. It is traditionally used to support the function of the stomach and intestines and relieve abdominal fullness.

Piqu (脾区)

This point is located in the lower abdominal region and is associated with the traditional Chinese medicine concept of spleen function, which plays a role in digestion and the transformation of food.

Sanyinjiao (三阴交)

This point is located on the inner side of the lower leg, approximately three cun above the inner ankle bone. It is traditionally used to regulate internal balance and support digestive function.

Hegu (合谷)

Hegu is located between the thumb and index finger. It is commonly used to relieve tension and support the movement of qi throughout the body.

Tianzhu (天柱)

This point is located on both sides of the back of the neck. It may be selected to reduce muscular tension and stress that could affect digestion.

Yaoyan (腰眼)

This point is located around the lower back. It is traditionally used to support bodily function and relieve certain types of discomfort.

The acupuncture points selected may vary depending on the cause of the bloating and the patient’s overall condition.

3. Chinese Herbal Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners may prescribe herbal formulas to restore internal balance and relieve abdominal fullness.

Commonly used herbs include:

Chen Pi (陈皮)

Dried tangerine peel is traditionally used to promote the movement of qi in the digestive system and reduce abdominal fullness and bloating.

Ban Xia (半夏)

Ban Xia is traditionally included in herbal formulas to support digestion, reduce nausea, and relieve the accumulation of phlegm or dampness.

Sheng Jiang (生姜)

Fresh ginger is traditionally used to warm and stimulate digestion and may help relieve nausea, abdominal discomfort, and bloating.

Lai Fu Zi (莱菔子)

Radish seed is traditionally used to promote digestion, reduce food stagnation, and relieve intestinal gas.

Chinese herbal medicines should be prescribed or recommended by a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner because the appropriate formula depends on each person’s symptoms, constitution, and health conditions.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments

Traditional Chinese medicine may also recommend lifestyle changes to help reduce bloating.

Choose Easily Digestible Foods

Avoid foods that regularly trigger gas or digestive discomfort. Choose lighter foods such as:

๐ Rice porridge

๐ Soup

๐ Softly cooked vegetables

๐ Warm and easily digestible meals

Eating slowly, chewing thoroughly, and avoiding excessively large meals may also help.

Exercise Regularly

Regular movement can stimulate gastrointestinal function, promote bowel movements, and reduce stress.

Gentle activities such as walking, stretching, yoga, or light exercise may be suitable.

Manage Stress

Stress-management techniques may help improve digestive health. Suitable activities include:

๐ Meditation

๐ Breathing exercises

๐ Yoga

๐ Getting sufficient rest

๐ Participating in enjoyable and relaxing activities

Persistent bloating, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, weight loss, fever, blood in the stool, or changes in bowel habits should be assessed by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.

 

 

Reference :

Qinglong Clinic Do Not Ignore Abdominal Bloating

ArokaGO Providers Qinglong Clinic