Loading symptom information
Feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen. Often from gas, diet, or digestive issues.
There are several possible causes. Here are the most common ones:
Eating too fast, carbonated drinks, high-fibre foods.
You might suspect this if you have:
Recurring bloating with other gut symptoms.
You might suspect this if you have:
Stool buildup causes distension.
You might suspect this if you have:
Lactose, gluten, or other intolerances.
You might suspect this if you have:
Important: This information is for general guidance only and should not be used to self-diagnose. A doctor can properly assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice.
Call 000 or go to Emergency immediately
Bloating is one of the most common digestive complaints and is usually benign. The most frequent cause is simply eating too quickly or consuming gas-producing foods (beans, cruciferous vegetables, carbonated drinks). IBS is the most common medical cause of recurrent bloating. What I am alert to is persistent bloating that is progressive (getting worse over weeks) — particularly in women over 50, where persistent bloating is one of the key early symptoms of ovarian cancer. Other red flags include bloating with unintentional weight loss, bloating with blood in stool, or new bloating with a change in bowel habits after age 50. For most patients, a food diary and dietary adjustment resolve the issue without medical intervention.
Medical certificate guidance: Bloating alone rarely requires a certificate, but when part of an IBS flare with significant pain and urgency, 1-2 days may be warranted.
All clinical decisions are made by AHPRA-registered doctors following our clinical governance framework. We never automate clinical decisions.
See a doctor if bloating is persistent, accompanied by weight loss, or severe pain. Sudden severe bloating needs urgent assessment.
If bloating with other symptoms (e.g. IBS flare) severely affects work, yes.
If your symptoms are keeping you from work or study, you can request a medical certificate through InstantMed. A doctor will review your symptoms and issue a certificate if clinically appropriate — typically for 1 to 3 days depending on severity. You don't need to be dramatically unwell; feeling genuinely too rough to function is reason enough.
Yes. Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and issue valid medical certificates via telehealth. You fill in a detailed health questionnaire, a doctor reviews it, and if appropriate, your certificate is delivered digitally. No waiting room required.
You complete a structured health questionnaire covering your symptoms, duration, severity, and relevant medical history. The reviewing doctor uses this information — the same clinical reasoning they'd apply in a face-to-face consult — to determine whether a certificate, advice, or referral is appropriate.
A medical certificate covers the period stated on the document. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected, you should see a GP in person or visit your nearest emergency department if it's urgent. Your certificate doesn't replace ongoing care — it's a point-in-time clinical assessment.
In some cases, yes. If a doctor reviewing your request determines that a common, non-restricted treatment is appropriate, they may issue a prescription as part of a consultation. Not all symptoms require or qualify for a prescription — the doctor will advise you on next steps.
Medical certificates are typically issued in under 30 minutes, available 24/7. Other requests are reviewed within 1–2 hours during operating hours (8am–10pm AEST, 7 days). You'll receive an email notification once your request has been reviewed.
If your symptoms suggest something that requires a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or specialist referral, the doctor will let you know and recommend appropriate next steps. Your safety is the priority — telehealth is a great option for many things, but it's not a replacement for hands-on assessment when that's what's needed.
No Medicare card is required for medical certificates. If you're requesting a prescription or consultation, a valid Medicare card is needed. Our service is private and does not attract a Medicare rebate, though any prescriptions issued can still attract PBS subsidies at the pharmacy.
Our Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and provide advice, treatment, or medical certificates if needed.
Get assessedThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.