What are the main causes of excessive flatulence. How can diet and lifestyle changes help reduce gas. What medical conditions may lead to increased flatulence. When should you see a doctor about excessive gas.

Understanding Flatulence: A Common Bodily Function

Flatulence, commonly known as passing gas or farting, is a natural bodily function that occurs when gas is released from the digestive system through the anus. While it’s a normal process, excessive flatulence can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing. On average, people pass gas between 13 and 21 times a day, according to the National Institutes of Health.

How does gas form in the digestive system? There are two primary ways:

1. Swallowing air (aerophagia) while eating or drinking
2. The breakdown of food by digestive processes

The gas produced typically consists of oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and occasionally methane. Understanding the composition and causes of flatulence is crucial for effectively managing excessive gas.

Common Causes of Excessive Flatulence

Why do some people experience more flatulence than others? Several factors can contribute to increased gas production:

Swallowing Air

Aerophagia, or swallowing air, is a common cause of excess gas. Activities that may increase air swallowing include:

• Chewing gum
• Smoking
• Wearing loose dentures
• Sucking on objects like pen tops
• Drinking carbonated beverages
• Eating or drinking too quickly

Dietary Choices

Can certain foods cause more gas than others? Absolutely. Carbohydrates are known to produce more gas than proteins and fats. Some foods that commonly increase gas production include:

• Beans and lentils
• Cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts)
• Whole grains
• Dairy products
• Onions and garlic
• Fruits like apples, pears, and prunes
• Foods high in fructose or sorbitol

These foods can take longer to digest or may not be fully absorbed by the body, leading to increased gas production in the colon as bacteria break down the undigested food particles.

Medical Conditions Associated with Excessive Flatulence

Is excessive flatulence always related to diet? Not necessarily. Several medical conditions can lead to increased gas production:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Celiac disease
• Lactose intolerance
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Gastroparesis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Constipation
• Diabetes

If you experience persistent excessive flatulence along with other digestive symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Effective Home Remedies for Managing Flatulence

How can you reduce excessive flatulence at home? Try these strategies:

Keep a Food Diary

Tracking your food intake and flatulence symptoms can help identify trigger foods. Once you’ve pinpointed problematic foods, you can reduce or eliminate them from your diet.

Adjust Your Diet

Replace gas-producing carbohydrates with easier-to-digest options like rice and bananas. Gradually introduce high-fiber foods to allow your digestive system to adapt.

Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals

Consuming five to six small meals throughout the day instead of three larger ones can ease the burden on your digestive system and reduce gas production.

Mindful Eating Habits

How can you reduce air swallowing during meals? Try these tips:

• Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly
• Avoid talking while eating
• Don’t use straws
• Avoid carbonated beverages
• Quit smoking

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation, which often leads to increased gas production.

Regular Exercise

Physical activity promotes healthy digestion and can help reduce flatulence. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Probiotics and Their Role in Digestive Health

Can probiotics help reduce flatulence? Many people find that taking probiotic supplements or consuming probiotic-rich foods can improve digestion and reduce gas. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health and may help balance the microbiome.

Some probiotic strains that may be particularly helpful for reducing gas include:

• Lactobacillus acidophilus
• Bifidobacterium infantis
• Bifidobacterium lactis

Consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or kimchi. Alternatively, you can try a high-quality probiotic supplement, but consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Excessive Flatulence

While occasional excessive flatulence is usually not a cause for concern, there are situations where medical attention may be necessary. When should you consult a doctor about flatulence?

• If excessive gas is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits
• If you experience unexplained weight loss
• If dietary changes and home remedies don’t provide relief
• If you suspect you may have a food intolerance or digestive disorder
• If flatulence is interfering with your daily activities or quality of life

A healthcare professional can perform tests to diagnose any underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatments.

Medical Treatments for Excessive Flatulence

What medical interventions are available for managing excessive flatulence? Depending on the underlying cause, your doctor may recommend:

Medications

• Over-the-counter anti-gas medications containing simethicone
• Enzyme supplements to aid in the digestion of certain carbohydrates
• Antispasmodics to reduce intestinal spasms
• Antibiotics if bacterial overgrowth is suspected

Dietary Counseling

A registered dietitian can help you develop a personalized diet plan that reduces gas-producing foods while ensuring adequate nutrition.

Treatment for Underlying Conditions

If a specific medical condition is causing excessive flatulence, treating that condition may help alleviate gas symptoms. For example:

• Medications for IBS or inflammatory bowel disease
• A gluten-free diet for celiac disease
• Lactase supplements for lactose intolerance

The Impact of Stress on Digestive Health and Flatulence

Can stress contribute to excessive flatulence? Indeed, stress can have a significant impact on digestive health, potentially leading to increased gas production. The gut-brain connection is well-established, and stress can alter gut motility, increase inflammation, and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.

How can you manage stress to improve digestive health?

• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Ensure adequate sleep
• Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to develop coping strategies

By addressing stress, you may find that your digestive symptoms, including excessive flatulence, improve.

The Role of Fiber in Digestive Health and Gas Production

How does fiber intake affect flatulence? Fiber is essential for digestive health, but it can also contribute to gas production. There are two types of fiber:

1. Soluble fiber: Dissolves in water and can be fermented by gut bacteria, potentially increasing gas
2. Insoluble fiber: Doesn’t dissolve in water and generally produces less gas

While fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation, suddenly increasing your fiber intake can lead to temporary increases in gas production. To minimize this effect:

• Gradually increase your fiber intake over several weeks
• Drink plenty of water to help fiber move through your digestive system
• Choose a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber sources
• Consider taking a digestive enzyme supplement when consuming high-fiber meals

By slowly increasing your fiber intake, you allow your digestive system to adapt, potentially reducing gas production over time.

The Connection Between Gut Microbiome and Flatulence

How does the gut microbiome influence gas production? The trillions of bacteria residing in your digestive tract play a crucial role in digestion and can significantly impact flatulence. Some bacteria produce more gas as a byproduct of fermentation than others.

Factors that can affect your gut microbiome and potentially increase gas production include:

• Antibiotics use
• Dietary changes
• Stress
• Lack of sleep
• Certain medical conditions

To promote a healthy gut microbiome and potentially reduce excessive flatulence:

1. Consume a diverse range of plant-based foods
2. Include fermented foods in your diet
3. Limit processed foods and artificial sweeteners
4. Consider prebiotic foods that nourish beneficial bacteria
5. Manage stress and prioritize sleep

By nurturing a diverse and balanced gut microbiome, you may experience improvements in overall digestive health and reduced gas production.

Lifestyle Modifications to Reduce Flatulence

Beyond dietary changes, what lifestyle modifications can help reduce excessive flatulence? Consider implementing these strategies:

Regular Physical Activity

Exercise can help stimulate digestion and promote regular bowel movements, potentially reducing gas buildup. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

Proper Posture

Maintaining good posture, especially after meals, can help prevent trapped gas. Avoid lying down immediately after eating.

Mindful Eating

Practice mindful eating by focusing on your food, chewing thoroughly, and avoiding distractions during meals. This can help reduce air swallowing and improve digestion.

Stress Management

Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.

Adequate Sleep

Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support overall health and digestive function.

Quit Smoking

If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking can increase air swallowing and negatively impact digestive health.

By implementing these lifestyle changes alongside dietary modifications, you may experience significant improvements in managing excessive flatulence.

Natural Remedies and Herbal Supplements for Gas Relief

Are there natural remedies that can help alleviate excessive flatulence? While scientific evidence varies, some people find relief with the following natural approaches:

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint has antispasmodic properties that may help relax the digestive tract and reduce gas. Try sipping on peppermint tea after meals.

Ginger

Ginger has been traditionally used to aid digestion and reduce gas. Consider adding fresh ginger to your meals or drinking ginger tea.

Fennel Seeds

Chewing on fennel seeds after meals is a common practice in some cultures to promote digestion and reduce gas.

Activated Charcoal

Some studies suggest that activated charcoal may help absorb excess gas in the digestive tract. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using activated charcoal supplements.

Cumin

Cumin has carminative properties, which means it may help prevent or reduce gas formation in the digestive tract.

While these natural remedies may provide relief for some individuals, it’s important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re considering herbal supplements, always consult with a healthcare professional first, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

The Psychological Impact of Excessive Flatulence

How can excessive flatulence affect a person’s mental well-being? While flatulence is a normal bodily function, excessive gas can lead to embarrassment, anxiety, and social discomfort. This psychological impact can be significant, potentially affecting:

• Self-esteem
• Social interactions
• Work performance
• Intimate relationships
• Overall quality of life

If excessive flatulence is causing significant distress or impacting your daily life, consider these strategies:

1. Seek medical advice to address any underlying issues
2. Practice self-compassion and remember that flatulence is a normal bodily function
3. Communicate openly with trusted friends, family, or partners about your concerns
4. Consider speaking with a mental health professional if anxiety or embarrassment becomes overwhelming
5. Focus on managing symptoms through diet, lifestyle changes, and medical treatments as recommended by your healthcare provider

By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of excessive flatulence, you can work towards improved overall well-being and quality of life.

Flatulence in Special Populations: Children, Elderly, and Pregnant Women

How does flatulence affect different age groups and populations? Let’s explore some specific considerations:

Children

Children may experience more flatulence due to:

• Swallowing air while eating or crying
• Consuming gas-producing foods like dairy or high-fiber vegetables
• Digestive system immaturity

To help children manage flatulence:

1. Encourage slow eating and proper chewing
2. Limit gas-producing foods if they cause discomfort
3. Ensure regular physical activity
4. Consult a pediatrician if excessive gas persists or is accompanied by other symptoms

Causes, Remedies, Complications, and More

While most people experience flatulence, swallowing air or eating certain foods like broccoli may cause it to occur more frequently. Some health conditions like celiac disease may cause excessive gas.

Also known as farting, passing wind, or having gas, flatulence is a medical term for releasing gas from the digestive system through the anus. It happens when gas collects inside the digestive system and is a normal process.

Gas collects in the digestive tract when your body breaks down food. It can also happen when you swallow air while eating or drinking. Gas is usually made up of oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and occasionally methane.

On average, people experience flatulence between 13 and 21 times a day, according to the National Institutes of Health. Some conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, and gastroparesis can cause excessive flatulence. You may also pass wind more frequently if you eat certain foods.

In some cases, gas can cause pain and bloating and affect your daily activities. Adjusting your diet, taking medications, and exercising may help reduce gas discomfort.

Gas collects in two main ways. Swallowing air (aerophagia) while you eat or drink can cause oxygen and nitrogen to collect in the digestive tract. Second, as your body breaks down food, gases like hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide collect in the digestive tract. Either method can cause flatulence.

Swallowing air

It’s natural to swallow air throughout the day, normally during eating and drinking. Typically, you’ll only swallow a small amount of air.

If you frequently swallow more air, you may find that you experience excessive flatulence. It may also cause burping.

Reasons that you may swallow more air than normal include:

• chewing gum
• smoking
• wearing loose dentures
• sucking on objects like pen tops
• drinking carbonated beverages
• eating or drinking too quickly

Dietary choices

The foods you eat could lead to excessive flatulence. Carbohydrates, for example, are known to cause gas.

Proteins and fats tend to cause less gas than carbohydrates. Some proteins can cause gas to have a stronger odor, though.

Some foods that increase gas include:

• beans
• cabbage
• broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• whole grains
• asparagus
• milk
• dairy products
• onions
• pears
• artichokes
• wheat
• oat bran
• peas
• potatoes
• corn
• raisins
• lentils
• prunes
• apples
• foods high in fructose or sorbitol, like fruit juices and sugar-free candies
• processed foods

These foods can take a long time to digest, leading to the unpleasant smell associated with flatulence. Also, there are some foods the body can’t fully absorb. This means that they pass from the intestines to the colon without being completely digested first.

The colon contains a large amount of bacteria that then break down the food, releasing gases as they do so. The buildup of this gas causes flatulence.

Not all foods will cause gas in all people. Keeping track of the foods you eat and flatulence symptoms you experience can help narrow down which ones cause gas in your body.

Underlying conditions

If your diet doesn’t contain a large amount of carbohydrates or sugars, and you don’t swallow excessive air, your excessive flatulence may be caused by a medical condition.

The conditions that can cause flatulence range from temporary health issues to chronic digestive problems. Some of these conditions include:

• constipation
• gastroenteritis
• food intolerances, like lactose intolerance
• IBS
• Crohn’s disease
• celiac disease
• diabetes
• eating disorders
• ulcerative colitis
• dumping syndrome
• gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• autoimmune pancreatitis
• peptic ulcers

You may be able to relieve excess gas and reduce flatulence through a mix of lifestyle changes and diet adjustments. Home remedies for flatulence include:

• Keeping a food diary. This will help you figure out which foods increase gas in your body. After you identify some foods that cause you excessive flatulence, you can try to eat less of them or avoid them altogether.
• Adjusting your diet. If your diet includes a large amount of carbohydrates that are difficult to digest, try to replace them. Carbohydrates that are easier to digest, such rice and bananas, are substitutes that may reduce flatulence.
• Eating smaller meals more frequently. Eating around five to six small meals a day instead of three larger ones may be easier on your digestive system.
• Trying to swallow less air. Avoid doing anything that may increase the amount of air that you swallow. This includes making sure that you’re chewing your food properly, and avoiding chewing gum, smoking, and straws.
• Drinking lots of water. Staying hydrated can help you avoid constipation, which causes gas.
• Exercising regularly. Some people find that exercising helps to promote digestion and can prevent flatulence.
• Taking probiotics. Probiotics, like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, may promote regular digestion, which can help reduce gas. These can be found in over-the-counter (OTC) supplements and fermented foods, like sauerkraut and yogurt.
• Using charcoal pads. Lining your underwear with a “fart pad” made of charcoal could help reduce odor in some cases of excessive flatulence.
• Changing your posture. Sitting in an upright position can help your body release excess gas.
• Using a heating pad. Placing a heating pad or hot water bottle on your belly can help reduce pain and cramping from excess gas.
• Consuming ginger. Ginger is known to promote digestion. Improving your digestion may help relieve flatulence and bloating.

Medications can also be used to treat flatulence, depending on the cause of the problem. Treatment options include:

• OTC medications: Drugstores offer a variety of medications, like bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) and simethicone (Gas-X, Phazyme), that can help relieve flatulence.
• Prescription drugs: Certain prescription medications can target underlying conditions, like IBS or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, that cause gas. Treating the condition may, in turn, reduce flatulence.
• Supplements: If you’re lactose intolerant, taking lactase (available OTC) may help relieve gas when you consume dairy products. Another supplement, alpha-galactosidase (Beano), can help the body break down legumes and vegetables in order to reduce gas.

Before adding any medications or supplements to your diet, consider checking in with a healthcare professional to make sure they’re safe for you.

If you’re concerned about flatulence, connect with a healthcare professional. They’ll ask about:

• your symptoms
• your diet
• your eating and drinking habits (like meal sizes and how quickly you eat)
• medications and supplements you take
• your medical history

They may also conduct a physical exam to check for swelling, tenderness, or sounds in your abdomen. This may include a physical exam of your rectum.

A healthcare professional may order additional medical tests, including X-rays, blood tests, and stool tests, to see if a potential health problem is behind your flatulence.

You may need to keep a food diary and adjust your eating habits as you work to find the cause of your excess gas.

Severe and persistent flatulence can make an impact on your physical well-being. It may cause pain, cramping, bloating, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Excess gas can also create complications for your mental health. You may find it stressful or embarrassing to deal with frequent flatulence, especially in social situations.

Relieving gas with home remedies, medications, or both can help reduce the likelihood of complications, though. Try different strategies to see which ones work best for you, and consider talking with a healthcare professional if flatulence is causing complications in your life.

If you have unexplained flatulence, or if you experience the following symptoms along with flatulence, you should see your doctor:

• swollen abdomen
• abdominal pain
• gas that’s persistent and severe
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• constipation
• unintentional weight loss
• heartburn
• blood in stool

These symptoms may be a sign of a serious underlying condition.

How to stop farting: 12 tips and remedies

Tips for reducing gassiness and the passing of wind include eating slowly, avoiding gum, and limiting the intake of fizzy drinks. However, excessive flatulence may be a sign of an underlying condition that needs medical attention.

Farting is a natural part of the digestion cycle. It is essential that the body releases the gas it produces. If not, it can build up and become very uncomfortable.

People can expect to fart between 5 and 15 times per day. This may seem like a lot, but it is entirely normal. Most farts do not smell and are not noisy, and so they go unnoticed.

Many people may feel as though they are unusually gassy, but it is probably just because they are more aware of their farts than anybody else’s. It is usual to pass 1–3 pints of gas per day.

For those who feel as though they have excessive gas, there are several steps to reduce flatulence. Here, we look at 12 possible remedies.

Share on PinterestEating quickly causes excess air to enter the body, which can lead to trapped wind.

There is usually no need to worry about farting. While some people do it more than others, it is a regular part of how the body works.

However, if a person feels that their farting has changed, or it is making them feel particularly embarrassed and uncomfortable, there are some things they can try to reduce the amount they fart:

1. Eat meals and snacks slowly and carefully

The majority of gas produced by the body forms because of swallowed air. A person cannot completely avoid swallowing air, but certain habits can cause excess air to enter the body. Eating too quickly is one of them.

Eating slowly with the mouth closed will reduce the amount of air a person swallows at mealtimes. People should try to sit down and take time over food rather than eating on the go.

2. Stop chewing gum

Many people chew gum to keep their breath fresh and to help avoid snacking. However, those that do may find they have more gas than others. Chewing gum means continually swallowing air, which builds up and increases the number of times a person needs to fart.

3. Look out for food intolerances and allergies

Different people may be sensitive to different foods and may have allergies that bring about a reaction in the body. These can lead to gas and other unpleasant symptoms, such as bloating, nausea, and diarrhea.

A person with excessive gas may find that an elimination diet helps. An elimination diet is where a person would cut out all of the known gas-causing foods before introducing them back in, one at a time, to find out which ones cause the problems.

4. Avoid tight-fitting clothes

Loose clothing helps to ensure a person remains as comfortable as possible should bloating occur. Wearing clothes that are not too tight also helps when gas does occur, allowing it to pass freely out of the body.

5. Avoid or reduce intake of gas-producing foods

Some foods are known to increase gas production. Carbohydrates that contain fructose, lactose, insoluble fiber, and starch ferment in the large intestine. Gas releases as they ferment.

Cutting these foods out entirely, however, is not recommended, as they are an essential part of a healthful, balanced diet.

Fruit and vegetables can often cause gas, but eating several portions of fruit and vegetables a day is more important than eliminating gas. However, reducing the amount of these gas-producing foods may help to minimize a person’s flatulence.

Foods to eat less of include:

• Beans, green leafy vegetables, such as cabbage, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, and asparagus. These vegetables contain complex sugars that are difficult for the body to break down.
• Soft drinks, fruit juice, and other fruits, as well as onions, pears, and artichokes. All of these foods contain fructose, a gas-producing ingredient.
• Dairy products as dairy foods and drinks contain lactose, which can also cause gas to build up.
• Fruits, oat bran, peas, and beans. These foods all contain insoluble fiber.
• Starchy foods, such as potatoes, pasta, corn, and products that contain wheat.

6. Give up smoking

People who smoke swallow more air than those who do not. The more frequently a person smokes, the more air they swallow. There are, of course, lots of other health benefits to giving up smoking, too.

People who use e-cigarettes also swallow more air than people who do not, so avoiding e-cigarettes could also help when a person has excess gas.

7. Do more exercise

Regular exercise helps keep the digestive system in good shape. A gentle walk after large meals can also help kick the digestive system into action and move the food along smoothly.

Share on PinterestStaying hydrated reduces the likelihood of constipation, by allowing waste to pass smoothly through the digestive system.

8. Drink plenty of fluids

Staying well-hydrated encourages waste to pass smoothly through a person’s digestive system. This helps keep their stools soft, and so drinking enough through the day is essential.

Also, a lack of fluid may cause constipation, which can result in smelly wind.

People should try to drink a glass of water with every meal to help the body digest foods more easily.

9. Avoid carbonated beverages

Carbonated beverages contain air bubbles, and a person who drinks a lot of carbonated beverages may find they burp and fart more than others.

When someone reduces or removes these types of drinks from their diet, it may help cut the amount of gas they have.

10. Take probiotics

Probiotics are supplements that contain the healthy bacteria already found in a person’s digestive tract. These good bacteria help to break down food, and can even work to break down the hydrogen gas that is produced during digestion.

Occasionally, probiotics may cause an increase in gas and bloating. This is usually short-lived, and it will probably lessen when the body gets used to the new bacteria.

Many probiotic supplements are available online.

11. Try enzyme supplements

Research suggests that enzyme supplements can aid the breakdown of proteins and complex carbohydrates. This means they could help with numerous digestive diseases and their symptoms.

If complex carbohydrates can be broken down in the small intestine, a person will produce less gas.

However, if they do not break down in the small intestine and move to the large intestine, it is the gas-producing bacteria that work to break them down. This means more gas will develop that will need to be released.

Lactase enzyme supplements may help people whose excess gas is caused by lactose intolerance. Lactase is the enzyme that helps people digest dairy products, and so can make people less gassy after eating meals that include dairy. These supplements are also available to purchase online.

Share on PinterestPeppermint tea can settle the stomach and aid digestion, which may reduce excess gas.

12. Tackle constipation

Constipation could be a cause of excess gas. If stool remains in the colon for extended periods of time, it will continue to ferment inside the body. This produces extra gas that can smell particularly foul.

Treatment for constipation varies. However, drinking lots of water and increasing fiber intake can help to reduce the risk of it occurring.

Certain medications and stool softeners, which are available online, can also help.

General tips

Do

• eat little and often, and avoid huge meals
• take time to chew food and take sips rather than large gulps of drinks
• take regular exercise, which will help to improve digestion
• eat a healthful, balanced diet
• drink peppermint tea, which is thought to aid digestion and settle the stomach

Do not

• smoke
• chew gum, suck pen tops, or hard sweets
• wear dentures that do not fit properly
• eat any trigger foods that are hard to digest, or foods known to cause farts

If a person is embarrassed about excessive wind or farts that smell, they can speak to a pharmacist. A pharmacist may recommend specific medication or remedies to help.

Charcoal tablets are thought to absorb excess gas in the stomach, which could reduce flatulence.

A person who has smelly wind could also try special underwear and pads that absorb the smells.

Many farts are due to swallowing air throughout the day. Swallowing air is not something a person can entirely avoid.

Other gas develops as the gut works to break down the foods a person eats.

Farts are a combination of mostly odorless gases, such as carbon dioxide, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, and sometimes methane.

Excessive or smelly wind can occasionally be a sign of a medical problem. If a person has concerns about their flatulence, they should make an appointment with their doctor.

Farting can be a symptom of conditions that may require medical treatment, such as:

• constipation
• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• indigestion
• celiac disease
• food intolerances or allergies

Certain medications can also cause excessive or smelly wind. It is essential always to consult with a doctor before stopping or switching medication.

Excess gas is not usually anything to be concerned about. Making a few lifestyle changes can often help improve symptoms.

However, in some instances, excess farting could be a sign of something more serious. A person should make an appointment with their doctor if excess gas is accompanied by:

• stomach aches or pain
• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhea
• unexpected weight loss
• blood in stool
• continual instances of constipation or diarrhea
• high temperature or feeling hot and shivery

If flatulence affects a person’s life badly, and dietary and lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications have not worked, they should see a doctor for further advice.

Flatulence. Causes, diagnosis, treatment | Directory KLRTS

Moscow, st. Partizanskaya, 41

Kuntsevsky
medical and rehabilitation center.

What is flatulence

Flatulence is the accumulation of gases in the intestines due to their entry from the caecum.
Flatulence occurs after overeating or constantly as a result of diseases of the digestive system. In this case, you need to consult a doctor to identify the causes of the appearance of an unpleasant condition.

Causes

In addition to overeating and food intolerance, increased gas formation develops due to the progression of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as cholecystitis, dysbacteriosis, gastritis, duodenitis, pancreatitis, colitis, intestinal obstruction, etc.
In adult patients, often the reason lies in the lunch on the run at a fast pace. In addition, a lack of enzymes, a disturbed intestinal microflora, can provoke the production of gases. In some cases, after operations in the peritoneal region, the motor activity of the intestine slows down, which is why the products are slowly processed.

Symptoms

By itself, flatulence is not dangerous for humans, but sometimes, together with other symptoms, the accumulation of gases indicates a pathological condition of the digestive tract. Among these signs it should be noted:

• swelling with a feeling of fullness,
• rumbling belly,
• abdominal enlargement,
• belching,
• uncontrolled release of gases with and without odor,
• stool disorder (alternating diarrhea and constipation),
• heartburn,
• pain and cutting in the abdomen.

If this clinical picture occurs frequently and the reason for its development is not malnutrition, then you need to consult a doctor.

Which doctor treats flatulence

With any problems of impaired functioning of the digestive tract, they turn to a gastroenterologist. To consult with a doctor, you must first make an appointment with a gastroenterologist, to do this, choose any method convenient for you:

• clinic call +7 (495) 103-99-55,
• order a callback,
• leave an application for an appointment, through a convenient form on the website:

Flatulence is a phenomenon that requires serious attention from both the patient and the attending physician.

IMPORTANT! The fact is that increased gas formation can appear both due to a certain nature of food (coarse, requiring long digestion), and due to the occurrence of a pathology of the gastrointestinal tract.

In any case, it is necessary to refuse self-treatment, which will certainly lead to complications. Make an appointment with the gastroenterologist of the Kuntsevsky Medical and Rehabilitation Center to determine the causes of flatulence and determine the treatment tactics to eliminate the symptom.

SIGN UP

Methods of treatment

To normalize the motor function of the intestine, the gastroenterologist develops a complex treatment. As part of therapy, he prescribes the use of pharmacological agents to normalize the microflora of the colon and split gases:

• enzymes of different groups to restore the missing elements in the body,
• sorbents that reduce bloating,
• prokinetics that accelerate the movement of food through the intestines and promote the removal of gases,
• defoamers that destroy gas bubbles,
• probiotics and prebiotics to help digest food in the intestines.

If, according to the results of the tests, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are detected, then the gastroenterologist selects a therapy aimed at eradicating their cause.

Rehabilitation and restoration of lifestyle

Since many foods provoke gas formation, legumes, potatoes, cabbage, lamb, kvass, beer and soda should be abandoned. Smoking and bad habits also negatively affect intestinal motility, so it is important to get rid of addiction.
The gastroenterologist advises to give up chewing gums, because. they produce the production of gastric juice, and also chew food thoroughly, while not drinking it with water.

Why you need to treat flatulence with us

Experienced gastroenterologists see you at the Kuntsevsky medical and rehabilitation center, located a stone’s throw from the Molodyozhnaya metro station. They regularly improve their skills and learn new methods of treatment, helping to cure the disease in a short time. Doctors not only carry out symptomatic treatment, but also identify the true cause of increased gas formation so that flatulence does not occur again.

References:

1. Flatulence syndrome: causes and possibilities of treatment / Golovenko O.V. etc.// Farmateka – 2009 – No. 2.
2. Flatulence: a modern view on the pathogenesis and methods of correction / Poluektova A.E.// Directory of a polyclinic doctor – 2008 – No. 6.
3. Excessive intestinal gas syndrome: clinical significance and principles of therapy / Butorova L.I.,
4. Kolomoets A.N. etc.// Difficult patient – 2005 – No. 6.
5. Bloating in clinical practice: a guide for doctors / T.B. Topchy, M.D. Ardatskaya, L.I. Butorova. – M.: Prima Print, 2021

Article author:

Make an appointment

Your request has been accepted!

Our managers will contact you shortly to clarify all the details of the appointment.

Ask your question by phone

+7 (495) 103-99-55

Request a call back

I agree to the processing of personal data

Flatulence – symptoms, treatment

Flatulence – symptoms, treatment.

The formation of gas in the intestines is absolutely normal, their presence in a small amount indicates that the intestines are working properly.

During the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), they come out arbitrarily so that a person may not notice it. This usually happens up to 5 times a day. Also, a variant of the norm is the presence of a mild odor, which is due to the presence of sulfur in the composition.

Digestion is responsible for:

• nervous system (all digestive organs are abundantly activated and supplied with blood, starting with the tongue, which perceives all tastes and transmits signals to the brain for the release of enzymes, ending with the regulation of peristalsis – the function of the intestines to remove processed food)
• enzymes, which must be in sufficient quantity for complete digestion of food
• bacteria – are an integral part of the gastrointestinal tract and regulate most chemical processes, including help in digestion

Symptoms of flatulence in the digestive tract.

A number of symptoms may indicate its presence, such as:

• a feeling of bloating and pain due to distension of the mucous membranes due to accumulated gases
• visual increase in the volume of the abdomen, even when eating a small amount of food
• constant seething in the intestines
• belching of air
• involuntary release of gases

The above symptoms are aggravated by strong emotional overexertion, change in diet, diet or continuation of that lifestyle, which led to flatulence. Such a clinical picture causes discomfort to a person both physically and affects his emotional and social spheres. This condition affects all people, regardless of age. Nevertheless, the adult part of the population is much more likely to develop it. A person suffering from intestinal flatulence is forced to limit direct contact with people in order not to experience feelings of guilt and shame, more withdrawn into himself. Constant worry and anxiety reduce the quality of life and significantly increase the risk of depression.

Causes of flatulence

Among the many causes of flatulence, two of the most common are distinguished: swallowing a large amount of air and digestion processes, usually caused by disturbed microflora.

In addition, weak peristalsis also affects the manifestation of symptoms, as a result of which gases cannot pass from it. Accumulating, lead to stretching of the intestinal walls, thereby provoking the onset of pain.

Chewing gum, talking while eating, eating too fast, snacking on the go, smoking cigarettes.

An overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines also leads to discomfort.

There is a fairly common myth that legumes cause excess gas, so many people deliberately remove these foods from their diet, depriving themselves of a large amount of micronutrients. This judgment is true only when the intestinal microflora is not prepared to receive this kind of food. When the balance between pathogenic and beneficial microflora is established, the symptoms of flatulence do not appear with moderate use of products of this group. In order to avoid the manifestation of discomfort, you should add small portions of legumes to your diet so that the microflora can adapt. It is for this reason that when a person changes his usual diet, bloating, discomfort and accumulation of gases can be observed.

One of the main sources of gas can be insufficient secretion of enzymes by bacteria necessary for the processing of indigestible sugars in the large intestine. Dairy products, especially in large quantities, cause flatulence due to insufficient enzymatic processing of lactose, which is contained in them.

Enzymes of the hydrolase group are responsible for the assimilation of milk sugar. In particular, it is alpha-galactosidase, which is responsible for the processing of indigestible carbohydrates, breaking them down to galactose (monosaccharide sugar) and sucrose, which are absorbed in the small intestine, not reaching the large intestine, and are used to provide the body with energy, and beta-galactosidase, which accelerates lactose hydrolysis reaction. With a lack of these enzymes, lactose does not undergo the necessary chemical processing and enters the large intestine in the form in which it entered the body and already there, under the action of microflora, it is broken down into organic acids and carbon dioxide. An excess of these products of a chemical reaction contributes to an increase in osmotic pressure, which in turn provokes the accumulation of fluid in the intestine. This mechanism leads to the development of vomiting and diarrhea, and can also be accompanied by pain, causing even more discomfort to a person.

This is particularly common in people with lactase deficiency, both adults and children. Therefore, they require intake from outside of this enzyme in order to avoid the symptoms of flatulence.

Prolonged use of antibiotics can provoke the occurrence of flatulence in adults due to the destruction of beneficial microflora, the absence or lack of which will be a substrate for the abundant growth of pathogenic flora.

Flatulence treatment

For successful treatment and prevention of flatulence, many doctors recommend following a number of recommendations:

• Changing the diet towards eating more leafy vegetables and reducing the consumption of fast, easily digestible carbohydrates, avoiding carbonated drinks.
• Dairy reduction. Even in people with normal enzymatic activity, an excess of products of this group leads to excessive gas formation.
• Stop smoking both cigarettes and hookahs.
• Increased physical activity to improve GI motility.
• The use of probiotics – substances that have a positive effect on the growth of beneficial microbiota. The main representatives of such bacteria are Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacterium acidophilus.
• The inclusion of enzymes in the diet (in particular alpha and beta-galactosidase, the ideal concentrations of which are selected in the probiotic complex Lactoflorene Flat stomach).

• The use of prokinetics – substances that affect intestinal motility. Such natural remedies include lemon balm, chamomile. Some fruits and vegetables, such as melon, grapes, carrots, beets, cabbage, have a similar effect.

Ginger should be singled out as a separate item, which helps to reduce inflammation and eliminate pain, and reduce swelling, due to the content of gingerol (a plant substance contained in the form of essential oil) in its composition. In addition, ginger has a carminative (carminative) effect, i. ensures the removal of gases from the body.

Passiflora extract has a tonic effect not only on the intestinal mucosa, but also on the body as a whole, which contributes to more comfortable digestion and elimination of nervous tension. Also has anti-inflammatory action.

All herbal extracts, probiotics and enzymes listed can be purchased and consumed individually. However, modern pharmacology has stepped far ahead and simplified the process of therapy. So in the pharmacies of the city and in online stores you can find the probiotic complex Lactoflorene FLAT STOMACH, which includes bifidus and lacto bacteria, digestive enzymes and plant extracts in the required ratio.

In addition, the sachet shape and Duocam’s unique packaging preserve the properties of the product until it is consumed, isolating the probiotics from the rest of the components and preserving their active effect.

Flatulence prevention

To prevent flatulence, reduce portion sizes, avoid overeating and chew thoroughly;

• Meals should be in a calm environment;
• Eating should be done silently and slowly to avoid swallowing large amounts of air;
• After a meal after 30 minutes, moderate physical activity is desirable;
• Reduce consumption of chewing gum and chew it no longer than 10 minutes, due to the content of sorbitol during prolonged chewing, it promotes gas formation;
• If possible, reduce stress levels and ensure quality sleep, which favorably affects intestinal motility and prevents the symptoms of flatulence.