Dr. Nighat Arif, an experienced NHS GP with over 15 years in women’s health, has shared an important message about the surprising and often overlooked symptoms related to bloating. Speaking to her 320,000 TikTok followers, she addressed an unexpected menopause symptom that many don’t talk about — digestive disturbances like sudden bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea.
“The gut and brain are closely connected, and hormones influence not just periods but also gut function,” Dr. Arif explains. “If your digestion has suddenly changed without warning, you’re not imagining it.” She highlights that these symptoms commonly occur during perimenopause and menopause, but they can affect men too.
Many patients experience fluctuating bowel habits — constipation one day, diarrhea the next — leaving them puzzled about what’s happening inside their bodies. Dr. Arif admits even she is “dumbfounded” by how frequently this occurs, emphasizing how these symptoms are often overlooked because of embarrassment.
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However, she warns that persistent bloating, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or sudden severe abdominal pain should never be ignored. “These could be warning signs of serious conditions like bowel or ovarian cancer,” she stresses. Her message is clear: while menopause-related symptoms are common, it’s crucial to get checked out to rule out other health concerns.
For those dealing with benign causes of bloating and gas, Dr. Arif encourages consulting a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and testing. Addressing symptoms early can ensure appropriate care and peace of mind.