Why does my stomach feel bloated even after drinking a sip of water?

Oct 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Drinking water causing stomach bloating may be due to the water being too cold, such as iced water, which can irritate the gastric mucosa and lead to spasms and contraction of the stomach wall, resulting in the aforementioned symptoms. It could also be caused by long-term consumption of irritating beverages such as strong tea or coffee. Chronic gastritis caused by Helicobacter pylori infection may also produce similar symptoms. Pyloric obstruction can likewise cause these symptoms, typically due to gastric ulcers or malignant tumors.

Feeling bloated after drinking water may be due to low water temperature, or it could result from medical conditions such as chronic gastritis or pyloric obstruction.

1. Low Water Temperature

Drinking very cold water, such as ice-cold water, may irritate the gastric mucosa, causing spasms and contraction of the stomach wall, leading to bloating and other symptoms. This may also be accompanied by diarrhea and abdominal pain. Therefore, it is recommended to drink water at a temperature close to body temperature.

2. Chronic Gastritis

Chronic gastritis may develop due to long-term consumption of irritating beverages like strong tea or coffee, or infection with Helicobacter pylori. It commonly causes symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, fatigue, and dizziness, which may lead to bloating even after drinking small amounts of water. Other possible symptoms include acid reflux, reduced appetite, diarrhea, and anemia.

3. Pyloric Obstruction

Pyloric obstruction can also cause the aforementioned symptoms, usually due to gastric ulcers or malignant tumors. Typical symptoms include vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. Additional symptoms may include constipation, dehydration, weight loss, and decreased urine output.