I just stumbled across this forum. I have had severe bloating for about one year. While my weight has increased (stopped smoking) this bloating seems to be more severe than just weight gain. Also, I have severe pain in the outside upper thighs. I mean, I can hardly walk. It hurts to lay on my side and I can barely walk after driving in a car for as little as one hour. I also have experienced lower back pain that has gone away somewhat but seems to have settled in my outer thigh area. The bloating scares me. I guess I wonder if these symptoms are a sign of something. I am afraid to go to the doctor.