What are the common symptoms of indigestion and gas. How can diet and lifestyle changes alleviate indigestion. What medications provide immediate relief for indigestion. How do antacids and alginates work to reduce stomach acid. When should you seek medical advice for persistent indigestion.

Understanding Indigestion: Symptoms and Causes

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common digestive issue that affects many people. It can manifest in various ways, causing discomfort and disrupting daily life. But what exactly are the symptoms of indigestion, and what causes this condition?

Common Symptoms of Indigestion

• Feeling full quickly during meals
• Bloating and abdominal discomfort
• Burning sensation in the upper abdomen or chest
• Nausea and occasional vomiting
• Excessive burping or flatulence
• Acidic taste in the mouth

These symptoms can vary in intensity and may occur occasionally or frequently, depending on the underlying cause. It’s important to note that persistent or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Common Causes of Indigestion

Indigestion can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Overeating or eating too quickly
• Consuming fatty, spicy, or acidic foods
• Excessive alcohol or caffeine intake
• Smoking
• Stress and anxiety
• Certain medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen)
• Underlying medical conditions (e.g., gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach ulcers)

Understanding the root cause of your indigestion is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Lifestyle Changes to Alleviate Indigestion

For many individuals, simple lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion symptoms. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight can contribute to indigestion by increasing pressure on the stomach. This pressure can lead to acid reflux, a common cause of indigestion. How can maintaining a healthy weight help? By reducing the strain on your digestive system, you can minimize the likelihood of acid reflux and associated discomfort.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is not only detrimental to overall health but can also exacerbate indigestion symptoms. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. By quitting smoking, you can improve your digestive health and reduce the risk of acid reflux.

Adjust Your Diet

Certain foods and beverages can trigger or worsen indigestion. Consider making the following dietary changes:

• Reduce intake of rich, spicy, and fatty foods
• Limit caffeine consumption
• Avoid or moderate alcohol intake
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly

Keeping a food diary can help identify specific triggers for your indigestion, allowing you to make personalized dietary adjustments.

Manage Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can significantly impact digestive health. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular physical activity can help alleviate indigestion symptoms associated with emotional stress.

Bedtime Strategies for Indigestion Relief

Nighttime indigestion can disrupt sleep and affect overall well-being. Implementing specific bedtime strategies can help minimize nocturnal symptoms:

Timing of Meals

Avoid eating large meals within 3-4 hours of bedtime. This allows sufficient time for digestion and reduces the likelihood of acid reflux while lying down.

Elevate Your Head

Using extra pillows or raising the head of your bed by a few inches can create a slight incline that helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus during sleep.

Avoid Trigger Foods Before Bed

Steer clear of known trigger foods, especially in the evening. This may include spicy dishes, citrus fruits, chocolate, or caffeinated beverages.

Medications for Immediate Indigestion Relief

When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, various over-the-counter medications can provide quick relief from indigestion symptoms:

Antacids: Neutralizing Stomach Acid

Antacids are a popular choice for immediate relief of mild to moderate indigestion. How do antacids work? They neutralize stomach acid, reducing irritation of the digestive tract lining. Available in tablet and liquid forms, antacids can be taken as needed or in anticipation of symptoms.

For optimal effectiveness, it’s recommended to take antacids:

• After meals
• At bedtime
• When symptoms first appear

The duration of antacid effectiveness varies depending on when they are taken. For instance, taking an antacid with a meal can provide relief for up to three hours, while taking it on an empty stomach may only be effective for 20-60 minutes.

Alginates: Forming a Protective Barrier

Some antacids contain alginates, which are particularly effective in treating acid reflux-related indigestion. How do alginates function? They create a foam barrier that floats on top of the stomach contents, preventing acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

Alginates are especially beneficial for individuals who experience symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn or a sour taste in the mouth.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Indigestion

While occasional indigestion is common and often manageable with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies, certain situations warrant medical attention:

• Persistent symptoms lasting more than two weeks
• Severe pain or discomfort that interferes with daily activities
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting blood or passing black stools
• Chest pain or shortness of breath

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires professional evaluation and treatment.

The Role of Prescription Medications in Treating Indigestion

In cases where over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle changes prove insufficient, your healthcare provider may recommend prescription medications to manage indigestion:

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs work by reducing the production of stomach acid, providing relief for individuals with frequent or severe acid reflux. These medications are typically taken once daily and can be effective in managing chronic indigestion symptoms.

H2 Receptor Antagonists

Also known as H2 blockers, these medications reduce stomach acid production by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach. They can provide longer-lasting relief compared to antacids and are often used to treat recurring indigestion.

Prokinetics

For individuals whose indigestion is related to delayed stomach emptying, prokinetics may be prescribed. These medications help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and promote faster stomach emptying, reducing symptoms of indigestion.

Natural Remedies for Indigestion Relief

In addition to conventional treatments, several natural remedies may help alleviate indigestion symptoms:

Herbal Teas

Certain herbal teas have been traditionally used to soothe digestive discomfort:

• Peppermint tea: Known for its calming effect on the stomach
• Ginger tea: May help reduce nausea and promote digestion
• Chamomile tea: Can help relax the digestive tract

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support digestive health. They can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or taken as supplements. How do probiotics help with indigestion? By promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria, probiotics may improve digestion and reduce symptoms of indigestion.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Some people find relief from indigestion by consuming a small amount of diluted apple cider vinegar before meals. While scientific evidence is limited, anecdotal reports suggest it may help stimulate digestion and reduce symptoms in some individuals.

Prevention Strategies for Long-Term Digestive Health

While treating acute symptoms is important, implementing long-term prevention strategies can significantly improve overall digestive health and reduce the frequency of indigestion episodes:

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity can promote healthy digestion and help maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.

Mindful Eating

Practicing mindful eating can help prevent overeating and reduce the risk of indigestion. This involves:

• Eating slowly and chewing thoroughly
• Paying attention to hunger and fullness cues
• Avoiding distractions while eating (e.g., watching TV or using smartphones)

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is crucial for optimal digestive function. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, but avoid large quantities of fluids with meals, as this can dilute stomach acid and potentially worsen indigestion symptoms.

Regular Meal Times

Establishing a consistent eating schedule can help regulate digestive processes and reduce the likelihood of indigestion. Try to eat meals at similar times each day and avoid skipping meals.

By implementing these preventive measures and being mindful of your digestive health, you can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion episodes, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.

Indigestion – Illnesses & conditions

Treatment for indigestion (dyspepsia) will vary, depending on what is causing it and how severe your symptoms are.

If you have been diagnosed with an underlying health condition, you may want to read our information on:

• treating gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
• treating a stomach ulcer

Diet and lifestyle changes

If you only have indigestion occasionally, you may not need to see your pharmacist or GP for treatment. It may be possible to ease your symptoms by making a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, summarised below.

Healthy weight

Being overweight puts more pressure on your stomach, making it easier for stomach acid to be pushed back up into your gullet (oesophagus). This is known as acid reflux, and is one of the most common causes of indigestion.

If you are overweight or obese, it is important to lose weight safely and steadily through regular exercise and by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Read advice on losing weight.

Stop smoking

If you smoke, the chemicals you inhale in cigarette smoke may contribute to your indigestion. These chemicals can cause the ring of muscle that separates your oesophagus from your stomach to relax, causing acid reflux.

Read more about quitting smoking, or speak to your GP or pharmacist. You can also call the Quit Your Way Scotland service on 0800 84 84 84 (8.00am to 10.00pm, every day).

Diet and alcohol

Make a note of any particular food or drink that seems to make your indigestion worse, and avoid these if possible. This may mean:

• eating less rich, spicy and fatty foods
• cutting down on drinks that contain caffeine – such as tea, coffee and cola
• avoiding or cutting down on alcohol

At bedtime

If you tend to experience indigestion symptoms at night, avoid eating for three to four hours before you go to bed. Going to bed with a full stomach means there is an increased risk that acid in your stomach will be forced up into your oesophagus while you are lying down.

When you go to bed, use a couple of pillows to prop your head and shoulders up or, ideally, raise the head of your bed by a few inches by putting something underneath the mattress. The slight slope that is created should help to prevent stomach acid moving up into your oesophagus while you are asleep.

Stress or anxiety

If you regularly experience feelings of stress or anxiety, this can contribute to symptoms of indigestion.

Read some relaxation tips to relieve stress.

Changing current medication

Your pharmacist may recommend making changes to your current medication if they think it could be contributing to your indigestion.

As long as it is safe to do so, you may need to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Where required, your pharmacist may advise you see your GP to prescribe an alternative medication that will not cause indigestion. However, never stop taking any medication without consulting your pharmacist or GP first.

Immediate indigestion relief

If you have indigestion that requires immediate relief, your pharmacist can advise you about the best way to treat this. As well as lifestyle changes and reviewing your current medication, your GP may prescribe or recommend:

• antacid medicines
• alginates

These are described in more detail below.

Antacids

Antacids are a type of medicine that can provide immediate relief for mild to moderate symptoms of indigestion. They work by neutralising the acid in your stomach (making it less acidic), so that it no longer irritates the lining of your digestive system.

Antacids are available in tablet and liquid form. You can buy them over the counter from most pharmacies without a prescription.

The effect of an antacid only lasts for a few hours at a time, so you may need to take more than one dose. Always follow the instructions on the packet to ensure you do not take too much.

It is best to take antacids when you are expecting symptoms of indigestion, or when they start to occur, such as:

• after meals
• at bedtime

This is because antacids stay in your stomach for longer at these times and have more time to work. For example, if you take an antacid at the same time as eating a meal, it can work for up to three hours. In comparison, if you take an antacid on an empty stomach, it may only work for 20 to 60 minutes.

Read more about antacids, including possible interactions with other medicines and side effects.

Alginates

Some antacids also contain a medicine called an alginate. This helps relieve indigestion caused by acid reflux.

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid leaks back up into your oesophagus and irritates its lining. Alginates form a foam barrier that floats on the surface of your stomach contents, keeping stomach acid in your stomach and away from your oesophagus.

Your pharmacist may suggest that you take an antacid that contains an alginate if you experience symptoms of acid reflux or if you have GORD.

Take antacids containing alginates after eating, because this helps the medicine stay in your stomach for longer. If you take alginates on an empty stomach, they will leave your stomach too quickly to be effective.

Treating persistent indigestion

If you have indigestion that is persistent or recurring, treatment with antacids and alginates may not be effective enough to control your symptoms. Your pharmacist may recommend a different type of medication, which will be prescribed at the lowest possible dose to control your symptoms. Possible medications include:

• proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
• h3-receptor antagonists

These are described in more detail below. Your pharmacist may advise you to see your GP who may also test you for the Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) bacteria (see Indigestion – diagnosis) and prescribe treatment for this if necessary.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs restrict the acid produced in your stomach.

The medication is taken as tablets and if you are over 18, you can buy some types of PPIs over the counter in pharmacies, but these should only be used for short-term treatment. PPIs may enhance the effect of certain medicines. If you are prescribed a PPI, your progress will be monitored if you are also taking other medicines, such as:

• warfarin – a medicine that stops the blood clotting
• phenytoin – a medicine to treat epilepsy

If your ingestion is persistent, your pharmacist might advise you to see your GP.

If your GP refers you for an endoscopy (a procedure that allows a surgeon to see inside your abdomen), you will need to stop taking a PPI at least 14 days before the procedure. This is because PPIs can hide some of the problems that would otherwise be spotted during the endoscopy.

PPIs can sometimes cause side effects. However, they are usually mild and reversible. These side effects may include:

• headaches
• diarrhoea
• constipation
• feeling sick (nausea)
• vomiting
• flatulence
• stomach pain
• dizziness
• skin rashes

h3-receptor antagonists

h3-receptor antagonists are another type of medication that your pharmacist or GP may suggest if antacids, alginates and PPIs have not been effective in controlling your indigestion. There are four h3-receptor antagonists:

• cimetidine 
• famotidine 
• nizatidine 
• ranitidine 

These medicines work by lowering the acidity level in your stomach.

Your GP may prescribe any one of these four h3-receptor antagonists, although ranitidine is available from pharmacies under the Pharmacy First Scotland service. h3-receptor antagonists are usually taken in tablet form.

As with PPIs, you will need to stop taking h3-receptor antagonists at least 14 days before having an endoscopy if this has been arranged through your GP. This is because they can hide some of the problems that could otherwise be spotted during the endoscopy.

Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) infection

If your indigestion symptoms are caused by an infection with H pylori bacteria, you will need to have treatment to clear the infection from your stomach. This should help relieve your indigestion, because the H pylori bacteria will no longer be increasing the amount of acid in your stomach.

H pylori infection is usually treated using triple therapy (treatment with three different medications). Your GP will prescribe a course of treatment containing:

• two different antibiotics (medicines to treat infections that are caused by bacteria)
• a PPI

You will need to take these medicines twice a day for seven days. You must follow the dosage instructions closely to ensure that the triple therapy is effective.

In up to 85% of cases, one course of triple therapy is effective in clearing an H pylori infection. However, you may need to have more than one course of treatment if it does not clear the infection the first time.

Symptoms, Causes, Diet, and Treatments

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are the Symptoms of Indigestion?
• Who Is at Risk for Indigestion?
• What Causes Indigestion?
• How Is Indigestion Diagnosed?
• What Is the Treatment for Indigestion?
• How Can I Prevent Indigestion?
• When Should I Call the Doctor About Indigestion?
• More

Indigestion is often a sign of an underlying problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, or gallbladder disease, rather than a condition of its own.

Also called dyspepsia, it is defined as a persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen.

The symptoms of indigestion include:

• Burning in the stomach or upper abdomen
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating (full feeling)
• Belching and gas
• Nausea and vomiting
• Acidic taste
• Growling stomach

These symptoms may increase in times of stress.

People often have heartburn (a burning sensation deep in the chest) along with indigestion. But heartburn is a different symptom that may be a sign of another problem.

People of all ages and genders are affected by indigestion. It’s extremely common. A person’s risk increases with:

• Drinking too much alcohol
• Use of drugs that irritate the stomach, such as aspirin and other pain relievers
• Conditions where there is an abnormality in the digestive tract, such as an ulcer
• Emotional problems, such as anxiety or depression
• Obesity
• Smoking

Indigestion has many causes, including:

Diseases:

• Ulcers
• GERD
• Stomach cancer (rare)
• Gastroparesis (a condition where the stomach doesn’t empty properly; this often occurs in people with diabetes)
• Stomach infections
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Thyroid disease
• Pregnancy

Medications:

• Aspirin and other painkillers, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen 
• Estrogen and oral contraceptives
• Steroid medications
• Certain antibiotics
• Thyroid medicines

Lifestyle:

• Eating too much, eating too fast, eating high-fat foods, or eating during stressful situations
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Cigarette smoking
• Stress and fatigue

Indigestion is not caused by excess stomach acid.

Swallowing excessive air when eating may increase the symptoms of belching and bloating, which are often associated with indigestion.

Sometimes people have persistent indigestion that is not related to any of these factors. This type of indigestion is called functional or non-ulcer dyspepsia.

If you have indigestion, make an appointment to see your doctor. Because indigestion is such a broad term, it is helpful to provide your doctor with a precise description of the discomfort you are feeling. In describing the symptoms, try to define where in the abdomen the discomfort usually occurs.

Your doctor will rule out any underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms. Your doctor may perform several blood tests and you may have X-rays of the stomach or small intestine. Your doctor may also suggest you have an upper endoscopy to look closely at the inside of the stomach. During the procedure, an endoscope — a flexible tube that contains a light and a camera to produce images from inside the body — is used to look inside your stomach.

Because indigestion is a symptom rather than a disease, treatment usually depends upon the underlying condition causing the indigestion.

Indigestion Medicine

Antacids

Antacids help ease indigestion symptoms. They neutralize, or offset, the stomach acid that causes indigestion. Common over-the-counter (OTC) antacids are:

• Mylanta
• Rolaids
• Tums

Histamine (h3) Blockers

h3 blockers lessen the amount of acid your stomach makes, so they can both stop and prevent indigestion symptoms. They take between 1 and 3 hours to take effect but work for several hours. If you take any prescription medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist before you use an h3 blocker because they can interact with certain other drugs. Common h3 blockers include: 

• Cimetidine (Tagamet HB)
• Famotidine (Pepcid Complete or Pepcid AC, Zantac 360)
• Nizatidine (Axid, Axid AR)

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

OTC PPIs also work by reducing the amount of acid your stomach makes, but they only treat frequent indigestion that happens two or more times per week. They take from 1 to 4 days to become effective. You can use them for up to 14 days, and up to three times per year. They can also interact with other medications, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before you use them. The most common PPIs that you can buy over the counter are: 

• Esomeprazole (Nexium 24HR)
• Lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR)
• Omeprazole and sodium bicarbonate (Zegerid OTC)
• Omeprazole magnesium (Prilosec OTC)

Indigestion Relief

You might not need any treatment. Indigestion often goes away on its own after a few hours. But let your doctor know if your symptoms get worse.

There a number of home or natural remedies that some people claim will ease indigestion symptoms, including: 

• Baking soda
• Apple cider vinegar 
• Chewing gum 
• Ginger 
• Bananas 
• Milk
• Aloe vera juice 

But unlike medications that are tested for safety and effectiveness, there are no guidelines to know if these remedies are safe and will work. Many things can affect how a remedy will work for you, including the cause of your indigestion, other medications you may be taking, and whether or not you’re pregnant. Check with your doctor before trying a natural remedy for indigestion. 

The best way to prevent indigestion is to avoid the foods and situations that seem to cause it. Keeping a food diary is helpful in identifying foods that cause indigestion. Here are some other suggestions:

• Eat small meals so the stomach does not have to work as hard or as long.
• Eat slowly.
• Try not to chew with your mouth open, talk while you chew, or eat too fast. This makes you swallow too much air, which can add to indigestion.
• Avoid foods that contain high amounts of acids, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes.
• Avoid spicy foods.
• Reduce or avoid foods and beverages that contain caffeine.
• If stress is a trigger for your indigestion, learn new methods for managing stress, such as relaxation and biofeedback techniques.
• If you smoke, quit. Smoking can irritate the lining of the stomach.
• Cut back on alcohol because it can also irritate the stomach lining.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting garments because they tend to compress the stomach, which can cause its contents to enter the esophagus.
• Don’t exercise with a full stomach. Rather, exercise before a meal or at least one hour after eating a meal.
• Don’t lie down right after eating.
• Avoid late-night eating. Wait at least 3 hours after your last meal of the day before going to bed.
• Sleep with your head elevated (at least 6 inches) above your feet and use pillows to prop yourself up. This will help allow digestive juices to flow into the intestines rather than to the esophagus.
• Get to and stay at a healthy weight. Extra weight puts pressure on your stomach and lower esophagus. 

If you don’t feel better after these changes, your doctor may prescribe medications for you.

Because indigestion can be a sign of a more serious health problem, call your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Vomiting, blood in vomit, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Black, tarry stools or visible blood in stools
• Severe pain in the abdomen
• Discomfort unrelated to eating

Symptoms similar to indigestion may be caused by heart attacks. If indigestion is unusual, accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, chest pain, or pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or arm, call 911 immediately.

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Flatulence with diarrhea | Motilegaz®

Date last updated: 05/01/2022

Average reading time: 6 minutes

Bloating, rumbling and increased gas can cause discomfort and distract from important matters. And if complaints are also accompanied by a violation of the stool, this is already a “double blow” to your well-being and your plans. Why flatulence occurs with diarrhea and how to cope with unpleasant symptoms – we will tell in the article.

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Causes of flatulence in diarrhea

The intestines of a healthy person normally contain about 200 ml of various gases ² . If the intensity of gas formation prevails over the ability of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) to remove gases ³ , the volume of the latter may increase 3 times ² . As a result, a condition develops, which in medicine is called flatulence.

Flatulence is a subjective sensation of fullness, fullness in the abdomen, which may be accompanied by ^2.4 :

• rumbling and transfusion feeling;
• increased gas from the rectum;
• measurable (objective) increase in abdominal circumference.

From time to time, bloating bothers many people, especially after heavy and hard to digest food. In this case, the bloating may be uncomfortable, but usually resolves after a few hours and does not pose a health risk ¹ . But sometimes flatulence is a symptom of diseases of the intestines and other organs of the gastrointestinal tract, for example, the stomach, pancreas, liver and biliary tract ² .

Next, consider those cases in which bloating is combined with diarrhea (diarrhea), that is, the release of liquid or semi-liquid stool more than 3 times a day ⁵ .

Dietary habits and alcohol

If flatulence and diarrhea bother you after eating, check the refrigerator first. The foods in your diet affect both the density of the stool and the amount of gas that is formed in the digestive tract ³ .

Bloating and loose stools may occur with frequent or excessive consumption of gas producing foods such as: ^3.6

• cabbage;
• mushrooms;
• celery;
• apples and pears;
• onion and garlic;
• legumes;
• whole milk and fermented milk products;
• fresh bread, grapes, kvass;
• sweet drinks;
• dietary products based on sweeteners;
• coffee and energy drinks.

Diarrhea often occurs with alcohol abuse, which accelerates the transit (movement) of food through the intestines, reduces the activity of some enzymes in the small intestine and the function of the pancreas ⁶ . Because of all these changes after alcohol consumption, flatulence and diarrhea are possible.

Dysbacteriosis

Intestinal bacteria are by no means a passive part of the gastrointestinal tract. The microflora takes an active part in digestion, absorption of nutrients and the formation of feces. Bacteria work in close cooperation with the intestines and therefore are able to regulate the volume and density of feces, the speed of their movement, as well as the frequency of stools ⁶ .

The large intestine is mainly inhabited by fermentative and putrefactive bacteria, and the activity of this gas-producing flora depends on the food we eat. So, fibers from plant foods and all sweet things are processed by fermentation, and proteins – by decay ³ .

Normally, the intestinal microbiota is also involved in the utilization of excess gases. But if its composition is violated, the number of gas-forming bacteria and, accordingly, gases increases. At the same time, intestinal microorganisms do not have time to utilize gases, and the latter are excreted in one of two ways ¹³ :

• absorbed into the blood and excreted during respiration;
• move forward and are removed through the rectum.

In case of diarrhea, when the food bolus passes through the intestines faster than usual, gases do not have time to be absorbed into the blood – this is one of the reasons why bloating accompanies diarrhea ³ .

Even if you drastically reduce the amount of food consumed or arrange a fasting day, gas formation will still occur in the intestines. Left without food from the outside, bacteria begin to digest internal products in the intestine, releasing the so-called “hungry gases” ¹² .

Irritable bowel syndrome

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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is popularly called “bear stool”, that is, diarrhea due to stress. Indeed, the psychological factor plays an important role in the development of this bowel disorder ⁸ .

IBS is quite often manifested by diarrhea accompanied by abdominal pain and flatulence. Characteristically, these complaints usually resolve after a bowel movement ^6.7 .

Intestinal infections

Acute infectious enteritis (inflammation of the small intestine) may present with severe bloating and distension in the early stages of the disease, often before the onset of diarrhea ¹ . The cause of unstable loose stools and flatulence can also be an acute infection with worms, Giardia or their chronic carriage ⁶ .

Loose stools in intestinal infections are the result of exposure to special bacterial toxins (enterotoxins), which increase the excretion of water in the intestines ⁵ .

Digestive enzyme deficiency

The pancreas is the main “supplier” of digestive enzymes to the small intestine, but when it is inflamed (in pancreatitis), its secretion of juice is impaired. Due to the lack of digestive enzymes after a meal, the intestines begin to “boil” – a lot of gases are formed and loosening of the stool is observed ⁶ .

Symptoms of excessive gas formation can also appear with a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which is produced in the small intestine and in the pancreas. Without lactase, the breakdown of milk sugar (lactose), which is contained in large quantities in milk products, is disrupted. With lactase deficiency, intolerance to these products develops – they can cause not only bloating, but also abdominal pain with diarrhea ² .

Celiac disease

Celiac disease is a disease that occurs due to an increased sensitivity of the immune system to a special food protein – gluten. The disease develops in genetically predisposed people ⁶ . In this condition, the transit of food through the gastrointestinal tract is accelerated ⁹ .

Celiac disease in adults is often silent and can be limited for a long time by mild abdominal pain, flatulence and rare episodes of diarrhea ⁶ .

Hormonal causes

Intestinal dysfunction may accompany or be one of the manifestations of diseases of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands and pancreas, in which the hormonal balance in the body is disturbed. The causes of bloating and diarrhea in this case depend on the specific disease. For example, diarrhea associated with increased thyroid function is most often caused by too rapid motility (intestinal motility) ⁶ .

In healthy women, bloating and stool disorder often occur or become more pronounced during the premenstrual period ¹ .

Diagnostics

Gas symptoms can accompany most gastrointestinal disorders ³ . To find out the cause of the complaints, it is important to tell the doctor the following information:

• how long ago the symptoms started ¹⁰ ;
• whether they are associated with the consumption of any food ¹⁰ ;
• what time of day is bloating and diarrhea more common ¹⁰ ;
• how often bowels are emptied per day ⁶ ;
• whether the properties of the stool have changed – its consistency, color or smell ⁶ ;
• whether there is blood, mucus or particles of undigested food in the stool ⁶ ;
• Are you worried about false urges, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels, or an increase in body temperature ⁶ .

Prevention and treatment

The first thing to do in case of flatulence and diarrhea is to consult a specialist. Self-medication can harm the body, since the right therapy is always aimed at eliminating the cause, and then at relieving unpleasant symptoms ² .

If your doctor has determined that bloating and frequent stools are due to poor diet, get ready to change your diet.

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Nutrition

In case of flatulence, it is recommended to limit or exclude foods that increase gas formation from the diet ³ :

• whole milk;
• legumes;
• vegetables and fruits with coarse fibres;
• fresh flour products;
• fatty meats and sausages, fried foods;
• sweets.

Fermented milk products are best consumed in small quantities, taking into account individual tolerance ² .

The best solution is to discuss your diet with your doctor.

Drug therapy

Depending on the causes of diarrhea and bloating, different groups of drugs can be used, for example ² :

• probiotics – to eliminate dysbacteriosis;
• antibacterial agents – for intestinal infection;
• antidiarrheals – for severe diarrhea;
• preparations containing pancreatic enzymes, if flatulence is due to their deficiency;
• antiflatulents – to relieve bloating.

To reduce the unpleasant symptoms of flatulence, your doctor may recommend drugs based on simethicone ² , such as Motilegaz® Forte. ¹¹

After taking the active ingredient Motilegaz® spreads over the surface of the foam film, which contains gases. As a result, there is a rapid outflow of fluid and the destruction of this film, and the released gas bubbles are absorbed into the blood through the intestinal wall or excreted from the gastrointestinal tract through the rectum. ¹¹

Simethicone in the composition of Motilegaz® Forte is not absorbed in the intestine and is excreted from the body unchanged ¹¹ .

Intestinal disorders are often manifested by flatulence and diarrhea, significantly affecting well-being and the usual rhythm of life. If several symptoms are bothering you, you may need to take different medications, but for treatment to help, it is important to identify the cause of bloating and diarrhea. This can only be done by a specialist. He also prescribes medication, which is aimed at eliminating the cause, facilitating the removal of gases and restoring the regularity of the stool.

Reference list

1. Malagelada JR, Accarino A, Azpiroz F. Bloating and Abdominal Distension: Old Misconceptions and Current Knowledge. Am J Gastroenterol 2017.
2. Nogaller A. Flatulence: causes and treatment // Vrach. – 2016. – no. 7 – p. 6-8. URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/meteorizm-prichiny-i-lechenie
3. Pakhomovskaya N.L., Venediktova M.M. Flatulence: causes and ways of correction. Pediatrics (Appendix to the journal Consilium Medicum). 2017; 2:32–36.
4. Lacy BE, Mearin F, Chang L, Chey WD, Lembo AJ, Simren M, Spiller R. Bowel Disorders. Gastroenterology 2016. 150(6), 1393–1407
5. Martynov A.I., Kokorin V.A. Evidence-Based Internal Medicine 2018 [Electronic resource] // Author’s edition, 2018. – 1680 p. – ISBN 978-83-743-0566-2 – URL: https://empendium.com/ru/chapter/B33.I.1.2.
6. Sarsenbaeva AS, Lazebnik LB Diarrhea in adults. Clinical guidelines. Project. Experimental and clinical gastroenterology. 2020;178(6): 4–41.
7. Practical Guidelines of the World Gastroenterological Organization. Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Global Perspective. 2015. URL: https://www.worldgastroenterology.org/UserFiles/file/guidelines/irritable-bowel-syndrome-russian-2015.pdf
8. Abdominal pain and visceral hypersensitivity in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Rome IV criteria and clinical practice / Ardatskaya M.D., Topchiy T.B. – M.: Prima-Print, 2017. – 63 p.
9. Lacy BE, Cangemi D, Vazquez-Roque M. Management of Chronic Abdominal Distension and Bloating. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2020
10. Abraczinskas D. Overview of intestinal gas and bloating. Official reprint from UpToDate. 2020
11. Instructions for use of the drug Motilegaz Forte® capsules// Reg. number LP-005861-181019// GRLS RF. – URL: https://grls.rosminzdrav.ru/Grls_View_v2.aspx?routingGuid=cf7fc018-ba1a-4021-bfb4-365907206922&t=
12. Potupchik T., Veselova O., Evert L., Kovalskaya V., Svinko I. Preparation of patients for diagnostic studies of the gastrointestinal tract. Vrach. 2017. No. 9. URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/podgotovka-patsientov-k-diagnosticheskim-issledovaniyam-zheludochno-kishechnogo-trakta
13. Tkach S. M. Flatulence and flatulence as causes of abdominal discomfort and reduced quality of life // Berezen . – 2013. – No. 6 (307). – S. 68-70. https://www.health-ua.com/pics/pdf/ZU_2013_06/68-70.pdf

what are the reasons and what to do?

Indigestion is more correctly called an intestinal disorder, because most of the food is digested there. We will figure out what disrupts digestion and how to deal with burning, bloating, diarrhea, constipation and colic.

With this article we open a series of publications about the most common problems with the stomach and intestines. In the following articles, we will analyze in more detail each of the problems mentioned and tell you what genetics affects and what lifestyle affects.

This and other articles on the Internet will help you learn more about unpleasant symptoms but will not replace your doctor’s visit!

Contents

• 1. Heartburn
• 2. Bloating
• 3. Constipation
• 4. Diarrhea
• 5. Abdominal pains

Heartburn

Symptoms

Heartburn is an unpleasant burning sensation in the chest area, sometimes accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth and belching. It is normal to experience heartburn after a hearty dinner, but with a constant burning sensation in the esophagus, you should consult a gastroenterologist.

Why it occurs

In case of heartburn, the contents of the stomach are partially thrown back into the esophagus. Persistent heartburn is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It can accompany gastritis, gastroduodenitis, peptic ulcer, dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, dysbacteriosis and other pathologies.

Don’t rush into making diagnoses. Burning may also occur after:

• a cup of coffee;
• cigarettes;
• sodas;
• alcohol;
• fatty meat food;
• dry snacks;
• coarse food;
• spicy dishes;
• fruit juice.

Overweight and pregnancy can also cause heartburn.

How to solve the problem

To avoid reflux of gastric juice into the esophagus, it is better not to lie down, jump or bend over for a couple of hours after eating. It is also important to improve nutrition in order to support your microbiome, not overeat and not lean on spicy food.

You don’t need to drink soda or milk for heartburn. You can get rid of heartburn at home with the help of antacids – they instantly and safely “extinguish” the attack.

For persistent heartburn, a gastroenterologist may prescribe proton pump inhibitors or h3-histamine receptor blockers. They slow down the production of hydrochloric acid by the cells of the stomach.

If heartburn torments you all the time, you need to contact a gastroenterologist and do an endoscopy of the stomach (EGD) – this procedure will accurately show whether the mucosa is inflamed.

Bloating

Symptoms

Bloating is flatulence. With it, the stomach bursts, it increases in volume, becomes hard. Sometimes you can feel the movement of gases in the intestines, seething and rumbling. When there is a lot of gas in the intestines, it is difficult and even painful to draw in the stomach.

Why it occurs

A small amount of gas in the intestines is normal. If bloating is noticeable to you and others, interferes with sports and causes discomfort, then this is already excessive gas formation.

A common cause of bloating is eating a lot of fast food and avoiding whole foods, plant foods. A burger, fries, and soda combo can cause stomach heaviness, fermentation, and constipation because there aren’t enough enzymes and fiber to digest it all and get it out of the body.

There is another reason for bloating – food intolerance. Many plant and dairy products contain FODMAP carbohydrates, which feed colon bacteria and lead to increased gas production, especially in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

How to deal with the problem

If you have severe bloating, it’s best to get up and move around to help the gas move out of the intestines. A sitting posture will only worsen the condition – the intestines are pinched in it. During this period, it is better to choose loose clothing.

Preparations with simethicone, which “collapses” gas bubbles in the intestines, will help to make you feel better. Peppermint tea and other warm drinks can also relieve discomfort.

If you eat healthy but still suffer from bloating, try identifying your trigger foods with the FODMAP diet and cutting them out.

Constipation

Symptoms

Retention of feces for more than two days is constipation. It is usually accompanied by a feeling of incomplete emptying and heaviness in the abdomen. The stool becomes more dense, you have to push hard and for a long time. Constipation can be temporary or chronic.

Causes

Lack of fiber and water in the diet makes feces hard, making going to the toilet more difficult. The situation is complicated by a sedentary lifestyle, in which peristalsis slows down.

Stress, depression, side effects of certain medications, and comorbidities can also cause constipation. Other reasons are haste and reluctance to use public toilets, which makes it necessary to restrain the urge.

How to solve the problem

Prunes, flax seeds, psyllium (psyllium husk) and prebiotics (inulin, lactulose) are considered natural laxatives. Caffeine also stimulates peristalsis.

Preparations with senna extract and other folk recipes are best avoided – they act harshly, irritating the intestinal receptors and causing it to “evacuate” the contents. As a result, constipation turns into diarrhea with bubbling and pain.

Sodium picosulfate or bisacodyl-based preparations work more gently, but they work on the same principle. Options with a more gentle mechanism of work are macrogol and prucalopride. But any laxatives should be used according to the doctor’s recommendations.

Constipation is best prevented by eating a variety of fiber (fruits, vegetables, herbs, legumes and mushrooms), eating regularly and around the same time, drinking more water.

Fiber absorbs water – feces pass through the digestive tract more easily. It is also important to move more during the day and not put off going to the toilet.

Diarrhea

Symptoms

Diarrhea requires going to the toilet more than three times a day, and the stool becomes loose, unformed, often with undigested food particles. In this case, the body loses water and electrolytes. Distinguish between acute and chronic diarrhea.

Causes

The main causes of diarrhea are food poisoning and intestinal infections. There is also traveler’s diarrhea – it is caused by the ingestion of new types of E. coli for the body.

Loose stools may be due to dysbacteriosis. When pathogenic bacteria take precedence over beneficial ones, the intestinal mucosa and its ability to digest food and synthesize vitamins suffer. Also, a lot of gases are formed that interfere with the normal formation of feces.

Chronic diarrhea often affects people with irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, folate deficiency anemia, or lactose intolerance. Also, the cause of regular diarrhea can be a violation of the intestinal microflora.

How to solve the problem

You need to drink plenty of water and take gel-like sorbents — they bind and remove toxic substances from the body more efficiently than activated charcoal. Medications like loperamide inhibit peristalsis, but do not solve the problem, so they can be relied on only in emergency cases. If diarrhea lasts a day or longer, you need to restore the water-salt balance with rehydration products.

If a rotavirus infection is suspected, antibiotics should not be taken on their own – sorbents will be enough. If diarrhea does not go away after 4-5 days, you need to call a doctor. The same should be done if the diarrhea is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or blood in the stool.

Abdominal pain

Symptoms

When they say that the stomach hurts, they usually mean colic and spasms. They can be barely perceptible, or they can literally twist the stomach. In this case, the abdomen is usually swollen or tense. It is from such colic that babies often wake up and cry.

Causes

One of the possible causes is flatulence. Excess gas stretches the walls of the intestine and thus causes pain when moving along the tract. People with sensitive bowels are especially susceptible to this pain.

Also, the stomach can hurt due to stress or a disturbed daily routine, in which you have to chaotically snack or endure hunger, and then eat up late in the evening.

Another cause is inflammation of the intestinal mucosa caused by intestinal flu or another infection. Colic and spasms can also be the result of a chronic illness such as gastroparesis, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, or liver damage.

Babies can have several causes of colic: emerging microflora, lack of enzymes, increased intestinal sensitivity, intolerance to formula for feeding, swallowing air.

How to solve the problem

Pain is relieved by antispasmodics that completely or selectively relax the smooth muscles of the intestine. A warm heating pad on the abdomen may help, but only if the cause of the abdominal pain is known and not inflammation. With colic in a baby, parents should keep a diary of colic and baby’s nutrition in order to establish the cause.