Excessive Gas
Excessive gas is a common digestive issue that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. While passing gas is a normal bodily function, excessive bloating, burping, and flatulence may indicate an underlying gastrointestinal condition.
Common Symptoms of Excessive Gas:
- Frequent Flatulence – Passing gas more than 20 times a day may be a sign of excessive gas production or difficulty absorbing certain foods.
- Bloating – A feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen, often accompanied by visible distension.
- Abdominal Pain or Cramps – Sharp or dull pain in the stomach, often relieved after passing gas.
- Excessive Burping (Belching) – Repeated burping, especially after meals, may indicate trapped air in the digestive tract.
- Gurgling or Rumbling Sounds – Loud noises from the stomach or intestines, commonly known as borborygmi, often caused by moving gas.
- Unpleasant Odor – Foul-smelling gas may result from the digestion of sulfur-containing foods or an imbalance of gut bacteria.
- Changes in Bowel Movements – Gas-related discomfort may be accompanied by constipation or diarrhea.
- Feeling of Pressure in the Stomach – A sensation of heaviness or discomfort that worsens after eating.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While occasional gas is normal, excessive or persistent gas may indicate a more serious condition, such as:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Lactose or Gluten Intolerance
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
- Pancreatic Insufficiency
- Gallbladder Dysfunction
Seek medical advice if you experience:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in stool
- Frequent nausea or vomiting
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
If excessive gas is affecting your daily life, our expert gastroenterologists can help diagnose and treat the underlying cause to restore your digestive health.