A common burp, belch or buildup of gas is normal. Still, some suffer from excess symptoms associated with bloating and gas. The condition is socially embarrassing and often causes discomfort. Learning more about bloating and gas aides in treating and preventing the condition. While a variety of lifestyle changes often decrease excess gas, medical treatment is advised if symptoms are accompanied by weight loss, nausea, vomiting and severe pain.
Symptoms
The symptoms of excess bloating and gas are obvious --- the stomach may become distended and gas is passed through the rectum. Burping or belching are the body's natural method of removing gas from the stomach. Sharp, severe abdominal pains may also occur, often feeling like a knot in the stomach.
Causes
Additional bloating and gas are often caused by swallowing excess air as well as eating certain types of food. Burping or belching as well as passing gas through the rectum is the most common way the body rids itself of gas buildup. Swallowing excessive air is also known as aerophagia. The condition may occur because of eating rapidly, smoking, drinking through a straw or even chewing gum. Beans, cabbage and certain fruits and vegetables can cause bloating and gas. Foods affect each person differently, according to the Cleveland Clinic. For example, eating pears may cause one person to suffer from severe bloating while another will show no symptoms of excess gas.
Treatment
Lifestyle changes include slowing down when eating and relaxing during meal time. Patients may choose to not drink carbonated beverages or use straws. Avoiding certain gas producing foods may be beneficial. Over-the-counter medications include lactase, for those suffering from lactose intolerance. Beano, an over-the-counter digestive medication, may aid in decreasing gas created by sugars found in beans and other vegetables. The Cleveland Clinic advises three to 10 drops of Beano be added to food before eating to decrease gas and bloating. Activated charcoal tablets decrease gas in the intestines. Pills are commonly consumed before and after eating, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Misconceptions
Some may feel they are experiencing excessive bloating or gas. Both conditions are normal reactions of the body. According to the National Center for Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse, a person may produce up to 4 pints of gas a day. The Center adds that passing gas about 14 times a day remains normal.
Diagnosis
A medical professional takes an oral history including types of foods and beverages a person eats on a regular basis. A person who may be experiencing lactose intolerance should stop consuming dairy products. A blood or breath test can diagnose lactose intolerance. A breath test also determines the inability to absorb fructose. A doctor may examine the stomach if excess bloating is common. A colonscopy may aide in a diagnosis and to rule out possible colon cancer. An X-ray of the upper digestive tract may determine the cause of excess belching or air swallowing.
