Chronic bloating affects quality of life and may point to underlying issues. While some causes require specialized testing, blood tests can offer important clues.
What Can Cause Bloating
- Celiac disease
- Food intolerances
- SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Hormonal imbalances
- Digestive enzyme deficiency
Helpful Lab Tests
Celiac Screening
- Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) IgA
- Total IgA (to ensure valid results)
- Deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) if IgA deficient
Thyroid Panel
Hypothyroidism can slow digestion and cause bloating, constipation, and fluid retention.
Inflammatory Markers
- CRP
- ESR
- Fecal calprotectin (stool test)
Other Considerations
- Complete metabolic panel (liver and kidney function)
- CBC (anemia can come from malabsorption)
- Vitamin and mineral levels (B12, iron, vitamin D - low levels may point to malabsorption)
Beyond Blood Tests
Some bloating causes require:
- Breath tests (SIBO, lactose intolerance)
- Stool testing
- Endoscopy/colonoscopy
- Food elimination trials
Blood tests can help rule out or identify certain causes, narrowing down the investigation.
References
- Rubio-Tapia, A., et al. (2013). ACG clinical guidelines: diagnosis and management of celiac disease. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 108(5), 656-676. PMID 23609613
- Lacy, B. E., et al. (2021). Management of chronic abdominal distension and bloating. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 19(2), 219-231.e1. PMID 32246999
