Gas pressure and gas pain are common. According to MayoClinic.com, everyone passes gas approximately 12 times each day, which may lead to embarrassing moments. No cure for gas pain and pressure exists, but several methods can reduce the pressure and frequency. Always consult your physician before attempting to self-treat any condition.
Function
Your mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus are the organs that make up your digestive system. The digestive process begins when you put food in your mouth. It then travels down the esophagus to the stomach, where it mixes with digestive juices. Once the food is processed in the stomach, it then passes through the small intestine and then to the large intestine, where it is expelled through the rectum and anus.
Causes
Many things can lead to gas pressure and pain. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that fiber rich foods are hard to digest, and when you add fiber to your diet, you may become gassy. This is a temporary, however, and your body will adjust to the additional fiber. Other causes of gas pressure and pain may include malabsorption and swallowing air while you eat. Malabsorption is when your body cannot properly digest or absorb certain nutrients.
Symptoms
If you are suffering from pressure and pain due to gas, you may experience involuntary or voluntary passing of gas, known as flatulence. According to MayoClinic.com, you may experience sharp, jabbing pains or cramps that may occur anywhere in your abdomen that leads to a knotted feeling.
Treatment
The cause of the gas typically determines the treatment for gas pressure and pain. Your doctor may recommend changing your diet to eliminate the foods that irritate your stomach or may suggest a prescription medication. You can also take many over-the-counter medications to relieve gas and the pressure felt due to gas. Antacids and lactase supplements aid in digesting certain foods that lead to gas.
Warning
If oily, foul smelling or bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, rectal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, weight loss or constipation accompany your symptoms of gas pain and pressure, speak with your physician for an evaluation.
