Gas and bloating can be embarrassing and a cause of discomfort. They are natural occurrences and occur frequently for most people. Approximately 11 percent of the general population report frequent bloating, and most people experience gas 10 times each day, according to American College of Gastroenterology. These symptoms often result from the breakdown of food through digestion or may from food, stress or illness. When gas and bloating interfere with daily activities, it may be an indication of a serious medical condition.
Lactose Intolerance
Many people with lactose intolerance suffer from gas and bloating. The condition refers to an inability to digest lactose, which is a sugar found in milk products. It results from deficiencies in lactase enzymes in the small intestines. When there are low levels of lactase enzymes, most lactose from food stays unprocessed in the colon and interacts with intestinal bacteria, according to Mayo Clinic. Those with lactose intolerance commonly develop the condition from age, genetics, illness and injury. The major symptoms of lactose intolerance include abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, nausea and gas.
Indigestion
Indigestion is a common digestive problem with many potential causes. The medical term for indigestion is dyspepsia, and it commonly occurs from eating too much or too fast, alcohol, smoking, caffeine, medications or stomach problems. It may also occur from conditions in the digestive track, which include peptic ulcer disease, acid reflux and abnormalities of the pancreas or bile ducts, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Those with indigestion experience abdominal discomfort and symptoms of bloating, belching, heartburn, nausea and gas. Indigestion is a normal occurrence for most people, but if it persistently occurs, a healthcare provider should diagnose its causes.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder of the colon. It is a functional bowel disorder that causes distress and discomfort on the abdomen and other bodily functions. The disorder occurs more often in men than women, and one in five Americans have symptoms of IBS, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The symptoms of IBS include cramping, bloating, constipation, gas, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
In people with the disorder, the intestines contract too strongly or not strongly enough. The result of these contractions causes food to move too quickly or too slowly through the intestines. The cause of IBS is unknown, but theories suggest it results from sensitivity to food, stress, hormones and illnesses, explains the NDDIC.
