We’re all familiar with that uncomfortable fullness of bloating and the sometimes-embarrassing consequences of gas. That discomfort is the result of trapped or slow-moving gas.
You may recognize that certain foods and drinks are to blame. Some foods are more likely than others to cause gas and bloating. Simply avoiding them can keep it to a minimum.
But sometimes, gas and bloating aren’t easy to relieve or can point to a more serious condition. Irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatic insufficiency, celiac disease, and many other conditions can cause gas and bloating.
But how do you know if your gas and bloating result from regular eating habits or something more?
It’s normal to pass gas around 15-20 times per day. Gas is a normal product of digestion that causes symptoms like:
It’s caused by the digestion and fermentation of foods and by swallowing air while you eat or drink. The foods that cause gas the most include:
Some medical conditions can also cause gas, bloating, and gas pains, including:
Gas and bloating can often be treated successfully at home.
Lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies can sometimes relieve or prevent excess gas and bloating. Try the following to get rid of bloating and gas:
If you’ve tried home remedies but are still experiencing excess gas and bloating, you should talk to a doctor about your symptoms.
When gas and bloating occur with other symptoms, it could mean something is going on other than normal digestion. You should see a doctor if you have gas and bloating along with any of these symptoms:
When you see a doctor, you’ll probably start by discussing your medical history and symptom history. It might help to keep a symptom journal noting what you were doing or what you ate when you had symptoms, their severity, and what helped or worsened them.
You’ll also have a physical exam of your abdomen to check for anything that feels abnormal and/or tender.
Your doctor may then recommend testing, like a colonoscopy, blood tests, upper GI imaging, or breath tests.
Some conditions that cause bloating, gas, and abdominal pain can be serious. Get immediate medical help for these symptoms:
Living with excessive gas and bloating can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and interfere with your daily activities. A visit with a gastroenterologist could be your first step to leading a more comfortable life.
Don’t live with chronic gas and bloating any longer – schedule an appointment today!
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