Acid reflux and stomach bloating can sometimes occur together but they are separate conditions. Acid reflux causes heartburn when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing the burning or painful feelings in the upper chest and throat, according to Medical News Today. Bloating occurs when too much gas builds up in the stomach and does not pass with belching or flatulence.
Effects
Acid reflux often causes chest pain sometimes felt in the stomach. The burning pain might rise into the throat and cause a bitter or sour taste in the back of the mouth or throat. Bloating causes a full or tight feeling in the abdomen, which sometimes results in abdominal pain. Acid reflux, particularly gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, can cause stomach bloating, MedlinePlus notes.
Foods
Eating fatty foods delays stomach emptying and increases the risk of bloating, MayoClinic.com explains. Fatty or fried foods also can contribute to acid reflux. Carbonated beverages can cause acid reflux and stomach bloating. Other foods that can cause bloating include baked beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, chewing gum, hard candy, apples, peaches and pears. Citrus fruits, alcohol, spicy foods, tomato-based foods and chocolate cause acid reflux in some people. Other causes that acid reflux and bloating have in common include overeating, eating too quickly, lactose intolerance and other food intolerances.
Disorders
Bloating also can result from stress or anxiety, which can also bring on acid reflux. Gastrointestinal infections, blockages or irritable bowel syndrome can cause abdominal pain and bowel changes that lead to bloating. Swallowing too much air can contribute to stomach bloating. People can swallow excess air by chewing gum, eating too fast or smoking. Smoking also contributes to acid reflux by inhibiting the production of saliva.
Chronic Condition
Acid reflux can occur once in a while for many people, but frequent acid reflux indicates GERD. An esophageal muscle that usually opens when food enters the stomach and closes to prevent acid backup does not work properly with the condition. A hiatal hernia, in which a part of the stomach pushes into the chest, also can increase the risk of acid reflux disease because of weakened tissues in the esophageal or stomach areas.
Prevention/Solution
Doctors usually recommend avoiding the foods that cause acid reflux or bloating to relieve the disorders. Treatment of serious underlying disorders helps reduce acid reflux or bloating. Antacids might relieve the abdominal pain of bloating, and some also include anti-gas remedies. Antacids and medications to reduce stomach acid help reduce acid reflux, and also might reduce bloating if acid reflux causes it. Doctors can prescribe stronger medication when over-the-counter products do not work.
