How can you alleviate gas pain and bloating naturally. What are the most effective over-the-counter remedies for gas discomfort. Which dietary changes can help reduce excessive gas and bloating. When should you seek medical attention for persistent gas problems.

Understanding Gas and Bloating: Causes and Symptoms

Gas and bloating are common digestive issues that affect many people. The average adult passes gas between 13 and 21 times a day, which is considered normal and healthy. However, when gas builds up in the intestines and cannot be expelled, it can lead to discomfort and pain.

What causes excessive gas and bloating? Some common culprits include:

• Overeating
• Swallowing air while eating or drinking
• Chewing gum
• Smoking cigarettes
• Consuming certain gas-producing foods
• Underlying digestive conditions

When should you be concerned about gas symptoms? If your gas-related discomfort causes significant distress, changes suddenly, or is accompanied by constipation, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. These symptoms may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires professional attention.

Natural Remedies for Gas Relief: Herbal Solutions

Several herbal remedies have shown promise in alleviating gas and bloating. These natural solutions can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

Peppermint: A Soothing Solution

How effective is peppermint for gas relief? Research has demonstrated that peppermint, either in tea or supplement form, can help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including gas. For optimal results, consider drinking a cup of peppermint tea before each meal. However, it’s important to note that peppermint may interfere with iron absorption and certain medications, and can cause heartburn in some individuals. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Chamomile Tea: A Gentle Digestive Aid

Can chamomile tea help with gas and bloating? Yes, chamomile tea has been shown to reduce indigestion, trapped gas, and bloating. For best results, try drinking a cup of chamomile tea before meals and at bedtime. This soothing herbal remedy may provide relief for some people experiencing digestive discomfort.

Cloves: A Spice with Digestive Benefits

How can cloves help with gas? Clove oil may assist in reducing bloating and gas by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. To use cloves for gas relief, add two to five drops of clove oil to an 8-ounce glass of water and drink after meals. This aromatic spice may help improve digestion and reduce gas-related discomfort.

Over-the-Counter Solutions for Gas Pain

When natural remedies aren’t providing sufficient relief, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be effective in managing gas and bloating.

Activated Charcoal: An Absorptive Approach

How does activated charcoal work for gas relief? Activated charcoal is an OTC medication that helps eliminate gas trapped in the colon. It works by absorbing excess gas in the digestive tract. For best results, take activated charcoal tablets right before and one hour after meals. This can help reduce the amount of gas produced during digestion.

Simethicone: Breaking Down Gas Bubbles

What is simethicone and how does it help with gas? Simethicone, found in products like Gas-X, Mylanta Gas, and Phazyme, is an OTC medication that works by consolidating gas bubbles in your stomach. This action allows you to expel gas more easily, providing relief from bloating and discomfort. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package and consult your doctor if you’re pregnant or taking other medications.

Beano: Preventing Gas Before It Starts

How can Beano help with gas problems? Beano is an OTC digestive aid containing an enzyme that breaks down complex sugars found in beans and certain vegetables. By taking Beano before consuming gas-producing foods, you can potentially reduce the formation of abdominal gas. It’s available in both liquid and pill forms. However, individuals with galactosemia should consult their doctor before using this product.

Dietary Approaches to Manage Gas and Bloating

For many people, dietary changes can significantly alleviate gas and its associated symptoms. Understanding how different foods affect your digestive system is key to managing gas and bloating through diet.

Identifying Trigger Foods

Which foods are most likely to cause gas? Common gas-producing foods include:

• Beans and lentils
• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage
• Dairy products (especially for those with lactose intolerance)
• Carbonated beverages
• High-fiber foods
• Artificial sweeteners

Keeping a food diary can help you identify which foods trigger gas and bloating in your individual case. Once you’ve identified your trigger foods, you can make informed decisions about your diet to reduce gas-related discomfort.

Lactase Supplements: A Solution for Dairy Lovers

How can lactase supplements help with gas caused by dairy products? For individuals with lactose intolerance, lactase supplements can be a game-changer. Lactase is the enzyme the body uses to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. By taking lactase supplements before consuming dairy, you can help your body digest lactose more effectively, potentially reducing gas and bloating.

Gradual Dietary Changes

What’s the best approach to changing your diet to reduce gas? When making dietary changes to manage gas, it’s important to do so gradually. Sudden drastic changes in diet can sometimes exacerbate digestive issues. Instead, try introducing new foods slowly and in small amounts. This approach allows your digestive system to adapt and can help you pinpoint which changes are most effective for you.

Lifestyle Modifications for Gas Relief

In addition to dietary changes and supplements, certain lifestyle modifications can help reduce gas and bloating.

Physical Activity: Moving for Relief

How can exercise help with gas pain? Physical activity can be an effective way to release trapped gas and alleviate gas pain. Walking after meals, jumping rope, running, or even gentle yoga can help stimulate digestion and encourage the expulsion of gas. Regular exercise not only aids in immediate gas relief but can also improve overall digestive health in the long term.

Mindful Eating Habits

Can changing how you eat help reduce gas? Absolutely. Mindful eating habits can significantly reduce the amount of air you swallow during meals, which is a common cause of excess gas. Try these tips:

• Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly
• Avoid talking while eating
• Sit upright while eating to aid digestion
• Avoid drinking through straws
• Limit carbonated beverages

By adopting these habits, you can minimize the amount of air you swallow during meals, potentially reducing gas and bloating.

Apple Cider Vinegar: A Potential Natural Remedy

How can apple cider vinegar help with gas? Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various digestive issues, including gas. It may help fight against bacteria that can cause abdominal gas accumulation and discomfort. To use apple cider vinegar for gas relief, try diluting a tablespoon in a glass of water or tea. You can drink this mixture right before meals or up to three times daily as needed to reduce symptoms.

While apple cider vinegar is generally considered safe for most people, it’s important to note that it’s highly acidic and may interact with certain medications. As with any new remedy, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating apple cider vinegar into your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Gas Problems

While occasional gas and bloating are normal, persistent or severe symptoms may warrant medical attention. When should you consult a doctor about gas-related issues?

• If gas symptoms cause significant distress or interfere with daily life
• If there’s a sudden change in your gas patterns
• If gas is accompanied by persistent constipation or diarrhea
• If you experience unexplained weight loss
• If you have blood in your stool
• If you have persistent abdominal pain

These symptoms could indicate an underlying digestive condition that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor can perform necessary tests to determine the root cause of your gas issues and recommend appropriate treatments.

Prescription Medications for Chronic Gas Issues

What prescription medications are available for chronic gas problems? Depending on the underlying cause of your abdominal gas, your doctor may prescribe various medications. These can include treatments for conditions such as:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

The specific medication prescribed will depend on your individual diagnosis and symptoms. Always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking prescription medications and report any side effects or concerns.

Comprehensive Approach to Gas Relief

Managing gas and bloating often requires a multifaceted approach. Combining dietary changes, natural remedies, over-the-counter solutions, and lifestyle modifications can provide the most effective relief. What’s the best strategy for finding relief from gas and bloating?

1. Identify trigger foods through a food diary
2. Gradually modify your diet to reduce gas-producing foods
3. Incorporate natural remedies like peppermint or chamomile tea
4. Try over-the-counter solutions like simethicone or activated charcoal
5. Adopt mindful eating habits to reduce air swallowing
6. Increase physical activity, especially after meals
7. Consider lactase supplements if you’re lactose intolerant
8. Experiment with apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy

Remember that what works best can vary from person to person. It may take some trial and error to find the combination of strategies that provides the most effective relief for your individual situation. If gas and bloating persist despite these measures, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment options.

By understanding the causes of gas and bloating and implementing these various strategies, you can take control of your digestive health and find relief from uncomfortable symptoms. With patience and persistence, most people can significantly reduce gas-related discomfort and improve their overall quality of life.

10 Tips to Get Rid of Gas, Pains, and Bloating

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Abdominal gas is quite typical. Often, certain home remedies and supplements can help you release it from your stomach. But if you’re still experiencing discomfort, you may want to see a doctor.

The average adult passes gas between 13 and 21 times a day. Gas is a healthy part of the digestion process. But if gas builds up in your intestines and you’re unable to expel it, you may start to feel pain and discomfort.

Gas pain, bloating, and flatus frequency can be exacerbated by anything that causes diarrhea or constipation. Gas can also be caused by:

• overeating
• swallowing air while you eat or drink
• gum chewing
• smoking cigarettes
• eating certain foods

Make an appointment with your doctor if your gas symptoms:

• cause you distress
• change suddenly
• are accompanied by constipation, diarrhea, or weight loss

Your doctor can determine the underlying cause.

If changing your diet doesn’t completely do the trick, you have several options to try.

1. Peppermint

Research has shown that peppermint tea or peppermint supplements can help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, including gas.

Talk with your doctor before you start using supplements. Peppermint can interfere with iron absorption and certain medications. It may also cause heartburn in some people.

Supplements will have directions about how much you should take on the bottle. For peppermint tea, drink one cup before each meal for the best results.

2. Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea can also help reduce indigestion, trapped gas, and bloating. Drinking chamomile tea before meals and at bedtime may reduce symptoms for some people.

3. Activated charcoal

Activated charcoal is another type of over-the-counter medication that helps eliminate gas trapped in your colon. You take tablets right before and one hour after meals.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Drinking apple cider vinegar may help fight against bacteria that can cause abdominal gas accumulation and discomfort. Dilute a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a beverage, like water or tea. Drink right before meals or up to three times daily as long as needed to reduce symptoms.

5. Physical activity

Exercise can help release trapped gas and gas pain. Try walking after meals as a way to avoid gas. If you have gas pain, jumping rope, running, or walking may help you expel it.

6. Lactase supplements

Lactose is a sugar in milk. People with lactose intolerance can’t digest this sugar. Lactase is the enzyme the body uses to break down lactose. Lactase supplements are available over the counter and can help your body digest lactose.

7. Cloves

Cloves are an herb used in cooking. Clove oil may help reduce bloating and gas by producing digestive enzymes. Add two to five drops to an 8-ounce glass of water and drink after meals.

8. Over-the-counter medications

Simethicone (Gas-X. Mylanta Gas, Phazyme) is an over-the-counter medication that works by consolidating gas bubbles in your stomach, allowing you to expel them more easily.

Follow dosing instructions, and make sure to discuss this medication with your doctor if you’re taking other medications or pregnant.

Another option is Beano, which is an OTC digestive aid containing an enzyme that breaks down sugars in beans and certain vegetables, which can help reduce abdominal gas. It comes as a liquid or a pill. People with galactosemia should ask their doctor before using it.

9. Prescription medications

Depending on the cause of your abdominal gas, there are many medications that your doctor may prescribe.

This includes medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

10. Diet

If your gas isn’t caused by an underlying medical condition, it may be caused by what you eat. Food is digested primarily in your small intestine. What is left undigested is fermented in your colon with bacteria, fungi, and yeast as part of digestion. This process produces methane and hydrogen, which are expelled as flatus.

For many people, changing dietary habits is enough to alleviate gas and its accompanying symptoms. One way to determine which foods are giving you gas is by keeping a food diary. Common culprits include high fat or high fiber food, carbonated beverages, and beans and lentils.

Here are 10 foods that can cause gas. Once you figure out what food is causing the gas, you can modify your diet to avoid the culprit.

Some conditions can cause excess gas. They include:

• gastroenteritis
• lactose intolerance
• celiac disease
• Crohn’s disease
• diabetes
• peptic ulcer
• irritable bowel syndrome

If no medical condition is causing the problem, preventing gas may best be accomplished by altering lifestyle habits and diet:

• Sit down during each meal and eat slowly.
• Try not to take in too much air while you eat and talk.
• Stop chewing gum.
• Avoid soda and other carbonated beverages.
• Avoid smoking.
• Find ways to work exercise into your routine, such as taking a walk after a meal.
• Eliminate foods known to cause gas.
• Avoid drinking through straws.

How do you get rid of gas quickly?

One thing that may help abdominal relieve gas a bit faster is to change your body position. Positions to reduce gas can include , for example, which can help push the gas out of the body. Other than that, medications and remedies may take some time to work, depending on the cause of your gas.

How long can trapped gas last?

Usually, trapped gas is released within a few hours. If it’s not, you should seek medical treatment in case you have another more serious medical condition.

What does trapped gas feel like?

Typically you would feel some discomfort and even pain in your stomach. It can affect the left, the right, the upper, or the lower part of your abdomen.

Gas can be painful, but it typically isn’t dangerous. If gas pain or bloating are issues for you, look to your diet and lifestyle to see what changes you can make. In many cases, lifestyle and diet modification may be able to eliminate the issue completely.

Make an appointment with your doctor if you don’t notice a difference after several weeks of lifestyle and diet changes. They can run tests to see if your symptoms are caused by a medical condition.

Trapped Gas: 9 remedies for relief

If you have trapped gas, trying home remedies and moving around may help you pass it. If it lasts a long time or occurs frequently, or you have other symptoms, you may have a health condition that needs treatment.

Trapped gas can feel like a stabbing pain in your chest or abdomen. The pain can be sharp enough to send you to the emergency room, thinking it’s a heart attack, appendicitis, or gallbladder.

Producing and passing gas is a typical part of your digestion. But when a bubble of gas gets stuck inside you, you want to relieve the pain as fast as possible. And if you have other symptoms, it’s a good idea to find out what’s causing the pain.

Read on to learn how to relieve trapped gas, what the causes might be, and tips for prevention.

Certain home remedies for relieving trapped gas work better for some people than others. You may have to experiment to see what works best and fastest for you. Most of the evidence behind these home remedies is anecdotal.

Here are some quick ways to expel trapped gas, either by burping or passing gas.

1. Move around

Walk around or exercise. Movement may help you expel the gas.

2. Get a massage

Try gently massaging the painful spot, which can stimulate gas to move downward and out of the body. In particular, using the “I LOV U” technique may be helpful.

This involves making circular massage movements on your abdominal area in the shape of the letters I, L, U, and O in the direction your bowel movements pass through the colon and small intestine.

3. Do yoga poses

Yoga may help your body relax to aid the passing of gas.

Here’s a pose to start with:

1. Lie on your back and extend your legs straight up with your feet together.
2. Bend your knees and put your arms around them.
3. Pull your knees down to your chest.
4. At the same time, pull your head up to your knees. You can also keep your head flat if it’s more comfortable.
5. Hold the pose for 20 seconds or more.

Certain yoga poses may work better than others.

4. Drink more liquids

Drink noncarbonated liquids. Warm water or herbal tea helps some people. Try peppermint, ginger, or chamomile tea.

Use prepared teabags, or make your own herbal tea by steeping ginger root, peppermint leaves, or dried chamomile.

A traditional Persian remedy advises mixing 10 grams (g) each of ground cumin and fennel with 5 g of ground anise and steeping them in a cup of boiling water for 20 minutes.

5. Try herbs

Natural kitchen remedies for gas include:

• anise
• caraway
• coriander
• fennel
• turmeric

Mix one of these ground herbs or seeds into a glass of warm water and drink.

6. Try baking soda

Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) in a glass of water and drink it.

Be careful not to use more than 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Too much baking soda taken when you have a full stomach could lead to a stomach rupture.

7. Drink apple cider vinegar

Dissolving 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drinking it is a traditional remedy for gas release.

Anecdotal evidence suggests this may be effective, but there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim. However, there aren’t any negative side effects to this method.

Many over-the-counter (OTC) remedies exist for gas relief. Again, the evidence for effectiveness may be anecdotal only. You’ll have to experiment to see what works for you.

Here are some products to try.

8. Enzyme preparations

Certain products may help if you are lactose intolerant. But these are usually taken as a preventive measure. These enzyme products include:

• Lactaid
• Digest Dairy Plus
• Dairy Relief

Alpha-galactosidase is a natural enzyme that helps prevent gas from legumes. There’s older evidence that it works to prevent gas and bloating. But again, it’s usually taken as a preventive measure.

Beano is a well-known version of this enzyme, available in tablet form.

9. Adsorbents

Simethicone products have possible benefits in relieving gas, according to some studies. They work by breaking up bubbles in gas.

These products include:

• Gas-X
• Alka-Seltzer Anti-Gas
• Mylanta Gas

Activated charcoal tablets, capsules, or powder may also help reduce gas. The charcoal is activated by heating it to make it more porous, which traps gas molecules in the spaces created. However, these products may have unwanted side effects, such as turning your tongue black.

These products include:

• Activated Charcoal
• CharcoCaps

Trapped gas symptoms usually come on suddenly. The pain can be sharp and stabbing. It can also be a general feeling of acute discomfort.

Your stomach may be bloated, and you may have stomach cramps.

Pain from gas that collects on the left side of your colon can radiate up to your chest. You may think this is a heart attack.

Gas that collects on the right side of the colon can feel like it might be appendicitis or gallstones.

There are many causes of trapped gas bubbles. Most are related to the process of digestion. But some may result from physical conditions that need treatment.

The following chart summarizes the variety of causes of trapped gas:

You can lower your risk of getting a painful trapped gas bubble by watching what and how you eat.

It may be useful to keep a food diary. This can help you keep track of the foods and circumstances that lead to a gas bubble. Then you can avoid those foods or behaviors that seem to give you a problem.

Try eliminating foods one by one so that you can pinpoint possible problems.

Here are some basic tips to start with:

• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid carbonated beverages.
• Drink liquids at room temperature, not too hot or too cold.
• Avoid foods known to cause excess gas.
• Avoid artificial sweeteners.
• Eat slowly and chew your food well.
• Don’t chew gum.
• Don’t smoke or chew tobacco.
• If you wear dentures, have your dentist check on whether they let in too much air when you eat.
• Increase your physical activity.

Try some of the home remedies or OTC remedies for gas, and see what might work for you.

It’s a good idea to see your doctor if you frequently have trapped gas bubbles, if they last a long time, or if you have any worrisome symptoms.

Other symptoms to watch for include:

• unexplained weight loss
• bowel movement frequency changes
• blood in your stool
• constipation
• diarrhea
• nausea or vomiting
• heartburn
• loss of appetite

Your doctor can diagnose other possible conditions. They may also advise you to take a probiotic or a prescription antibiotic.

It’s a good idea to discuss the remedies that you’re already trying, especially any herbal supplements.

What is the best position to relieve gas?

Several poses can help relieve gas, particularly yoga poses. Examples include the child’s pose and knee-to-chest pose.

How long can trapped gas last?

Gas can stay trapped, causing pain, for a couple of hours. If you do not experience relief within that time frame, you may wish to see your doctor in case you have a more serious issue like appendicitis.

Does drinking hot water relieve gas?

Drinking more water, regardless of its temperature, can help you relieve trapped gas.

Trapped gas can be acutely painful. It’s usually not serious but may be a sign of a food intolerance or an underlying digestive problem.

Watching what you eat and taking some preventive measures can help.

Getting rapid relief may take some experimenting with different remedies to see what works for you.

Bloating – causes and treatment, which doctor to contact

What is bloating and where does it happen

Abdominal distension (tympania) – an uncomfortable feeling of heaviness and fullness in the abdomen. As a rule, it is accompanied by rumbling, belching, sometimes diarrhea or constipation. Rarely, with swelling, pain and colic are noted.

In addition to bloating and a feeling of fullness, some patients report nausea, bad taste in the mouth, and pain.

Localization of pain depends on where exactly the gases are accumulated :

• Splenic flexure of the intestine – there is pressure and pain in the left hypochondrium. The pain radiates to the region of the heart.
• Subhepatic flexure of the intestine – feeling of fullness and pain under the right rib. The pain radiates to the right shoulder blade, shoulder and neck.
• Cecum – pain in the right lower abdomen.
• Small intestine – bloating is felt in the area around the navel.

Causes of swelling

Bloating can have many causes, from a can of canned peas for lunch to pancreatitis or irritable bowel syndrome.

Physiological causes

The most common cause of bloating is the consumption of gas-promoting foods.

The fact is that in the intestines the food is finally broken down to the necessary substances, which are absorbed in the small intestine, and unnecessary, which enter the large intestine and are excreted during defecation.

Some foods contain complex substances that are difficult to digest, such as fiber or starch. To break them down, bacteria that constantly live in the intestines come to the rescue. Gases are the waste products of such bacteria, which are formed when they process carbohydrates and other substances. The smell and amount of gases depends on what bacteria live in the intestines and how many of them.

A common cause of bloating is the consumption of gas-promoting foods. Gases are waste products of bacteria living in the intestines

Another cause of bloating is swallowing air. This happens when a person is in a hurry and eats or drinks on the go, talking while eating. In this case, the swelling is short-term, and the discomfort disappears with belching.

In addition, bloating is aggravated by smoking and obstructed nasal breathing, because in these cases the person also swallows air through the mouth.

In the elderly, bloating may be associated with age-related changes in the intestines.

After 50-60 years, the intestinal mucosa partially atrophies, peristalsis slows down, so digestion can slow down – gases accumulate and provoke flatulence and bloating.

In pregnant women, bloating often occurs in the later stages. This is due to mechanical compression of the intestines by an enlarged uterus, slowing down of peristalsis due to hormonal changes, as well as an increased load on the liver and pancreas. Usually, relief occurs within a month after childbirth.

In addition, bloating may appear on the background of emotional experiences. For example, a little nervousness due to a morning jam can lead to the release of stress hormones and slow down digestion, causing bloating, pain, or constipation. More serious worries, for example due to an upcoming public speaking, can lead to an acceleration of digestive processes and even diarrhea.

There is no exact relationship between the strength of stress and digestive disorders – these are individual reactions.

The listed causes are physiological and are not considered a sign of illness. As a rule, in such cases, improvement can be achieved by changing the diet or using symptomatic remedies. But there are more serious causes of bloating.

Infections

Against the background of infectious diseases, the bacterial composition of the intestine is disturbed – dysbiosis develops. As a result, gas formation increases – the stomach swells and hurts. In addition, other signs of infection appear – nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever.

Infectious diseases accompanied by bloating :

• acute intestinal infections – dysentery, salmonellosis, rotavirus infection;
• fungal infection of the gastrointestinal tract – intestinal candidiasis caused by fungi of the genus Candida;
• parasitic infections – giardiasis, opisthorchiasis, toxocariasis, echinococcosis, ascariasis, enterobiasis.

Not only the listed, but also any other intestinal infections, regardless of the pathogen, can lead to bloating.

Colon pathologies

Abdominal distention is one of the signs of colon damage, which is often combined with constipation and abdominal pain.

Pathologies of the colon accompanied by bloating :

• inflammatory diseases – ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease;
• oncological diseases and precancerous conditions – benign and malignant tumors of the intestine, polyps;
• congenital or acquired enlargement of the large intestine – megacolon or dolichosigma;
• change in the intestinal lumen – pneumatosis (formation of air cavities), diverticulum (protrusion of the intestinal wall).

Diseases of the esophagus and stomach

Bloating is often seen with inflammation of the upper digestive tract. At the same time, the motility of the gastrointestinal tract is disturbed: gases accumulate and move along it unevenly, provoking discomfort.

Diseases of the esophagus and stomach accompanied by bloating :

• gastroesophageal reflux disease – a chronic disease caused by impaired motility of the organs of the gastroesophageal zone, due to which the contents of the stomach are periodically thrown back into the esophagus;
• hiatal hernia – protrusion of part of the esophagus into the middle compartment of the chest wall.

Malabsorption

Sometimes food is not absorbed properly in the small intestine: there are not enough enzymes. If you are deficient in lactase (the enzyme that breaks down milk sugar) or have an intolerance to gluten (the main protein in cereals), eating the right foods can increase gas production and lead to bloating.

In addition, bloating is caused by malabsorption, a condition resulting from malabsorption of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract.

Abdominal inflammatory processes

Sudden bloating accompanied by severe pain may be a sign of serious conditions requiring immediate medical attention. This happens with acute inflammation of the abdominal wall – peritonitis, as well as intestinal obstruction.

Severe bloating and absence of flatus are characteristic signs of intestinal obstruction.

In addition, the cause of bloating can be an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity – ascites.

Functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract

Functional disorders are conditions that present with gastrointestinal symptoms without pathological changes.

In functional disorders, the sensitivity of nerve endings in the mucous membrane is disturbed. This makes the stomach feel “something is wrong” and reacts with pain, bloating, or diarrhea when there is really nothing to worry about.

The most common forms of functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia.

Abdominal wall failure

Changes in the anatomical structure of the abdominal wall can also lead to bloating. This happens, for example, with a divergence (diastasis) of the rectus abdominis muscles, a hernia of the white line, or postoperative hernias.

When and which doctor to contact

Bloating occurs periodically in every person and in itself is rarely associated with something dangerous to health. Most often, the stomach swells due to stress, carbonated drinks, a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, a sedentary lifestyle, snacking on the go, or an imbalance in the composition of the intestinal microflora.

If bloating bothers you all the time and interferes with a normal life, you should consult a doctor. You can start with a therapist or immediately sign up with a specialized specialist who treats gastrointestinal problems – a gastroenterologist.

Diagnostics

To understand the exact cause of swelling, the doctor may order laboratory or instrumental studies.

Laboratory methods for diagnosing distension

The most commonly used advanced or basic biochemical study, determine the level of the main enzymes of the pancreas and liver in the blood.

Clinical blood test with leukocyte formula and ESR (with microscopy of a blood smear in case of pathological changes) (venous blood)

as well as help in the diagnosis of anemia, diseases of the hematopoietic organs, allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases.

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To assess the chemical composition and physical properties of the contents of the large intestine, as well as to conduct a microscopic analysis for pathogenic microflora, the doctor may prescribe a coprogram, tests for fecal calprotectin, pancreatic elastase enzyme, Clostridium difficile toxins in feces, analysis for helminth eggs. To exclude inflammatory and oncological diseases of the intestine, an analysis for occult blood in the feces is used.

Coprogram

Analysis includes physicochemical and microscopic examination of feces. The study is prescribed to identify pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract.

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Calprotectin in feces inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease) non-inflammatory and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

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Pancreatic elastase 1 – a pancreatic enzyme that is involved in the digestion of food. The analysis helps to identify a malfunction of the pancreas – pancreatic insufficiency.

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Toxin A and B (Clostridium difficile, pseudomembranous colitis), antigen test

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Analysis allows you to detect hidden bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract . It is used in the framework of screening for colorectal cancer and precancerous conditions.

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In addition, tests for gluten and lactose are used to detect intolerance to these nutrients.

Celiac disease: advanced screening

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Comprehensive serological examination reveals antibodies to the connective tissues of the small intestine, as well as to gliadin, a component of the cereal protein gluten . It is used when celiac disease is suspected and to control the treatment of this disease.

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Lactose intolerance

Investigation of polymorphism (varieties) in the regulatory region (MCM6) of the gene encoding the lactase enzyme (LCT). Allows you to identify the genetic causes of lactose intolerance – the inability of the body to fully absorb milk and dairy products in adulthood due to a lack of an enzyme.

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Instrumental methods for diagnosing bloating

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy , or gastroscopy: a doctor using an endoscope – a flexible tube with a camera at the end – examines the mucous membrane of the esophagus, stomach and initial sections of the intestine from the inside. In this way, inflammation, mucosal defects or tumors can be detected.

Colonoscopy is another endoscopic examination that allows you to assess the condition of the mucous membrane of the lower intestine. During colonoscopy, the endoscope is inserted through the anus.; The study requires special preparation.

Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity – allows you to quickly and non-invasively assess the condition of the biliary tract, liver, spleen, blood vessels, detect tumors, cysts or other changes.

Radiography – allows you to assess the general condition of the internal organs and the motility of the small and large intestines (X-ray with barium), exclude intestinal obstruction.

Treatment of bloating

Treatment will depend on the cause of the swelling. So, in infectious diseases of the intestine, therapy will be aimed at destroying pathogens and restoring the balance of microflora, with gastritis – at restoring the gastric mucosa, and with lactase deficiency – at the exclusion of milk from the diet.

Only a doctor should determine the exact cause of swelling and prescribe treatment.

If bloating is not associated with diseases or pathological conditions, you can try to help yourself by slightly changing your lifestyle and adding good habits.

How to relieve bloating

Gas is an individual reaction, therefore, before you actively fight bloating, you should observe yourself and highlight those foods, medicines or conditions after which the stomach begins to rebel. Then it will become clear what the reason is – in shawarma, soup with beans or emotional experiences.

If the culprit is found, try to exclude him from life, or at least limit him, in order to check whether he really was the case.

What else will help to cope with bloating

Physical activity

After eating, it is definitely not recommended to lie down or sit crouched at the computer. At least 20 minutes after eating, you should be in an upright position with a straight back. If you want, you can take a walk – this will help reduce bloating.

Restriction of products that increase gas formation

Legumes, cabbage, milk, black bread, eggs contribute to increased gas formation, but this is an individual reaction.

Often, bloating is due to the fact that the foods consumed contain a lot of fiber. But fiber is an integral part of a healthy diet and it is not recommended to completely exclude it from the diet.

If a person has never eaten it regularly, then you should gradually add legumes, vegetables and fruits to the diet to find your optimal portion.

Falafel increases gas production due to high fiber content

Fermented products

If gas is associated with an imbalance of microbes in the gut, foods containing beneficial bacteria (probiotics) will help. Food sources of beneficial bacteria include canned vegetables and fruits, kefir or yogurt.

Conscious eating

Chewing food thoroughly and not talking while eating is not just a lecture for small children, but an important step that will help not swallow excess air and at the same time make the process of eating more conscious and enjoyable. In addition, a slow meal helps to normalize weight, because satiety signals do not reach the brain until 20 minutes after the first bite has entered the mouth.

No carbonated drinks

Often with bloating, it’s not the food, but the drinks. For example, effervescent or carbonated liquids like beer, mineral water, or sweet soda cause carbon dioxide to accumulate in the stomach, causing it to swell.

The best drink to combat this is water. Just not carbonated.

Treatment and prevention of bloating

Contents:

Flatulence or a feeling of distended abdomen occurs regularly in every person of any age. Usually, food that provokes gas formation, or various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, lead to bloating. Normally, flatulence quickly passes with the passage of gases. But if bloating is frequent and accompanied by abdominal pain, you should seek medical help.

Signs of bloating

Bloating is not a disease per se. This is a symptom of various pathologies, in which there is an increase in the abdomen with possible rumbling, belching and gas discharge. Flatulence is inherent in people of all ages and is the most common syndrome of gastroenterology.

The main signs of bloating are:

• palpable or visible enlargement of the abdominal cavity
• rumbling sounds inside the abdomen
• gas passing through the mouth (belching) or anus

Depending on the localization of gases in the large intestine, bloating may be accompanied by pain in the right or left hypochondrium. The accumulation of gases in the small intestine is characterized by general bloating and discomfort over the entire surface of the abdomen.

Mechanism of gas formation

The main sources of gases accumulating inside are naturally swallowed air, gases produced during the vital activity of our gastrointestinal bacteria, as well as gases excreted from the blood. At the same time, the composition of gases is very heterogeneous, it is a mixture of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide and even methane. Normally, during the day, up to 2 liters of gases are formed inside the human gastrointestinal tract. Most of them are absorbed by the intestines, only hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen are excreted through the rectum.

Is flatulence dangerous for life?

Patients with flatulence often complain of its discomfort and deterioration in the quality of life. Many do not like the feeling of “puffing up”, unpleasant and embarrassing manifestations of bloating in the form of belching and gas discharge. Some worry that the accumulation of gases can be hazardous to health. By itself, flatulence is not life-threatening, but it can be a symptom of some serious medical conditions.

Pathological bloating indicates the following diseases:

• irritable bowel syndrome
• dysbacteriosis
• intestinal obstruction
• pancreatitis

• liver cirrhosis
• cholecystitis 900 16
• dropsy
• cancer

Causes of flatulence

Bloating can be caused by natural causes inherent in human life processes as well as various diseases. The main reasons can be called physiological conditions, infections, intestinal disorders, diseases of the stomach and intestines.

• Food. The natural cause of bloating is food. The use of a large number of gas-forming products leads to flatulence. These are products such as legumes, white cabbage, rye bread, carbonated drinks, sweet confectionery, muffins, as well as beer and other fermented products.
• Aerophagy. Swallowing air. Another physiological reason for the accumulation of gases in the abdominal cavity. Normally, a person can swallow a small amount of air while eating, but it is insignificant and does not cause serious consequences. Aerophagia, on the other hand, refers to disorders of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, when air is swallowed in large quantities that can form a bubble of impressive size.
• Age. Physiological changes occur in older people, due to which gas production increases and tends to linger inside, creating bloating.
• Pregnancy. With the development of the fetus, the uterus increases and begins to put pressure on the internal organs, pushing them apart. As a result, increased gas formation and difficulty in removing gases. Pregnant women complain of flatulence mainly in the later stages, but cases of bloating may become more frequent from the second trimester.
• Intestinal infections. Acute diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis, enterocolitis, colitis, rotovirus are always accompanied by severe bloating with vomiting, abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea.

• Candidiasis. Fungal lesions of the intestine may be accompanied by flatulence, diarrhea and pain behind the peritoneum. In this case, gases are mainly a waste product of fungi.
• Infestations. Infection with various parasites can lead to the formation of not only a large number of gases, but also interfere with their removal due to weakening of the intestines and constipation.
• Colon pathologies. Chronic colitis, benign tumors and polyps, enlargement of the colon, all these diseases are often accompanied by painful bloating.
• Diseases of the stomach and esophagus. Pathologies of the esophagus and stomach provoke increased gas formation, which can become one of the symptoms of diseases such as reflux, hiatal hernia, and gastritis.

Diagnosis of flatulence

Determination of the bloating itself is usually not required, the patient comes to the doctor precisely because of the subjective sensation of an increase in the abdomen and discomfort in the peritoneum. An examination is necessary precisely to determine the cause of flatulence and its further treatment. The doctor needs to determine the disease or condition that provokes swelling and eliminate them. When complaining of flatulence, clinical studies are carried out such as:

• X-ray examinations. In order to determine damage to the digestive system.
• Abdominal ultrasound. Allows you to assess the internal state of organs, the presence of formations and cysts.
• Visual inspection. Endoscopic examination of the digestive organs or gastroscopy and colonoscopy demonstrate possible inflammation and tumors.

How to treat bloating?

The treatment of flatulence is individual. In each case, first of all, it is aimed at stopping the disease that provokes swelling. However, doctors often hear the question: “What to drink for bloating?” Then, to alleviate the condition, symptomatic therapy is also prescribed, which reduces the manifestations of flatulence.

Helps relieve bloating:

• Diet
• Absorbents
• Probiotics and prebiotics

• Enzyme therapy 900 16
• Cholagogues and antispasmodics

Proper eating habits are important for the health of every person, but they are sick help you recover faster. The foundation is always food. With flatulence, fractional meals in small portions 5-6 times a day are recommended. Meals should be organized so that there is always at the same time. Gas-forming foods, sweets, pastries, carbonated drinks and alcohol should be excluded from the diet.

Medication is prescribed to stop the negative conditions of flatulence. Antispasmodics relieve pain and motor disorders of the intestines, enzymes replace the missing elements in the stomach, and absorbents reduce the volume of gases. Normalize the microflora in the state of probiotics and prebiotics.

It is worth choosing complex products that can act in several directions. One such product is Lactoflorene® Flat Stomach.

Lactoflorene® Flat Stomach contains alpha-galactosidase and beta-galactosidase, enzymes involved in the processing of gas-forming products. They are able to reduce the puffy effect of even foods such as legumes, cabbage and beer. Live bifidobacteria Bifidobacterium lactis HN019TM and lactobacillus Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® positively affect the balance of intestinal microflora and suppress the vital activity of pathogenic bacteria.