How can I treat gas with the best medication available?
- What is gas Problem?
- Medications
- Other treatments
- FAQs
- Summary
There is a possibility that swallowing air while eating or drinking may lead to gas in the stomach, which can cause discomfort and bloating.
It is not uncommon for someone to have gas from time to time, and this should not be of concern. There are, however, instances where severe, frequent, or persistent gas problem can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. There may be times when a person wants to relieve gas problem with medications in some cases.
There are several different ways of treating gas, including medications for gas problem and other types of treatments. There are also some answers to some common questions about the gas in this article.
What is gas Problem ?
There comes a time in everyone’s life when they have a build-up of gas problem in the stomach. It is believed that swallowing air while eating and drinking usually causes the buildup of this substance. There can be symptoms such as discomfort, bloating, and sometimes abdominal pain as a result of this condition.
Symptoms
Symptoms of gas includeTrusted Source:
- bloating
- flatulences
- belching
- pain or discomfort in the abdomen
Accompanying symptoms may include:
- heartburn
- indigestion
- constipation
- diarrhe
Causes
Gas can be caused by a variety of different factors.
There are a number of these, including:
Swallowed air
While eating or drinking, most people swallow a small amount of AirTrusted Source. It is important to remember, however, that certain behaviors can cause a person to swallow too much air, such as:
- eating or drinking too fast
- sucking candy
- chewing gum
- drinking carbonated drinks
- smoking
The act of burping is capable of releasing excess gas and relieving uncomfortable bloating.
The problem of food intolerances
It’s possible that you might have a food intolerance if you experience frequent gas and bloating. The body has a hard time digesting certain foods and unable to process them properly as a result. It is common for people to suffer from food intolerances such as:
- gluten intolerance
- lactose intolerance
- fructose intolerance
The symptoms of food intolerance may also include the following:
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- bloating
- skin rash and itching
Reflux disease of the gastroesophageal tract (GERD)
GERD is an esophageal condition in which acid and other stomach contents are pushed back up into the throat and into the esophagusTrusted Source. It is the esophagus that connects the mouth with the stomach, and it is connected to the food pipe. There are a number of symptoms that a person with GERD may experience as well:
- nausea
- chest pain
- heartburn
- hiccups
- sore throat
- regurgitation
- difficulty swallowing
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
There are different symptoms associated with IBS, but one of the most common is often the inability to control bowel movements and abdominal pain without visible signs of disease or damage to the digestive tract. As well as gas problem, symptoms of IBS include:
- repeated abdominal pain
- constipation
- diarrhea
Fermentation in the gut
There are several processes in the intestine that break down food, which can release gases, which build up in the stomach and may cause burping and flatulence. There are some foods that may causeTrusted Source to experience more gas than others, including:
- dairy products
- high fiber foods
- vegetables
- beans
- sugar substitutes
Less common causes of gas
Gases may also be caused by the following causes:
- bowel obstructions
- celiac disease
- colon cancer
- peptic ulcers
- chronic constipation
- hernia
Medications for gas problem
Here are a few common medications that may be recommended by a healthcare professional to help relieve gas pain.
Simethicone
Various brands of Simethicone are available over the counter (OTC) under the name of the drug.
In order for Simethicone to do its work, it gathers smaller, trapped gas bubbles in the gut and enlarges them into larger bubbles so that they are more easily expelled by the body. Within a half hour of taking the medication, it usually starts working.
There may be some mild side effects from the medication, which may make it unsuitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Alpha-galactosidase
It is a great OTC supplement that helps in the breakdown of complex carbohydrates such as those in:
- legumes
- vegetables
- whole grains
- sugars
The breakdown of complex carbohydrates can help prevent or reduce gas production by limiting the fermentation process. It is typically not associated with any side effects when using alpha-galactosidase.
It is important to note, however, that the medication may not be effective in all cases of gas. The results of a 2021 study conducted by the trusted source found that alpha-galactosidase was not more effective at relieving pain, bloating, or gas than a placebo in the treatment of IBS.
Lactase supplements
The Trusted Source disaccharide lactose, which is a type of sugar that can be found in dairy products, is digested by lactase, an enzyme. There is a low level of this enzyme in individuals who are lactose intolerant.
Taking a lactase supplement may assist the digestive system in processing lactose, resulting in fewer gastric issues.
Prescription medication
The treatment of general gas does not require prescription medications and it is unlikely that a person will need them. There are, however, cases in which a doctor may prescribe medication to treat an underlying condition.
It is important to note that the following medications may be used to manage IBS:
- The use of laxatives for constipation relief
- Pain relief and cramp relief can be achieved with antispasmodics
- In order to stop diarrhea, antimotility medications should be taken
GERD may be managed with the use of the following medications:
- Reduce the amount of stomach acid produced by proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- antacids to relieve heartburn
- It is possible to decrease stomach acid production with the help of H2 blockers
Other treatments for gas
The use of natural products and healthy lifestyle strategies may reduce the risk of gas and prevent its occurrence. It is always recommended that someone speak with a doctor before trying any alternative methods to manage gas in order to get reliable advice.
Natural products
There are many natural products that have proven to alleviate gas symptoms, including the following:
- According to researchers, cinnamon has been shown to inhibit both the secretion of the enzyme pepsin as well as the release of gastric acid in the stomach. There is a possibility that the gas in your stomach may decrease significantly over time as a result of this.
- According to a trusted source, ginger has a carminative effect on the body. As a result, it is possible for it to reduce bloating, flatulence, and cramps, as well as relieve pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter as well.
- There has been research that suggests extracts of anise can be useful as laxatives, carminatives, and antispasmodics which could alleviate gas symptoms when used on a regular basis.
Lifestyle strategies
It may cause gas if you consume too much food, or if you drink too much water. You can reduce gas in your stomach by eating smaller meals more frequently, and eating them more slowly.
The results from research have suggested that certain conditions are associated with gas and bloating, including:
- obesity
- depression
- anxiety
It has been proven that maintaining a moderate weight as well as seeking treatment for mental health conditions can positively impact the digestive system on a long-term basis.
Depending on what type of food is avoided or limited, gas and bloating may be reduced or prevented. Gas can be caused by a variety of foods, such as:
- beans and peas
- smoked foods
- salty foods
- fatty foods
- fried foods
- fruit with high moisture content, such as watermelon and cucumber
- stale food
- carbonated drinks
The formation of gas can also be caused by certain activities, such as intense exercise right after a meal, which can happen if one is not careful.
Frequently asked questions
I have listed some of the most common questions about gas below.
How can someone get rid of gas quickly?
There are a number of OTC medications that work fairly quickly for gas. Movement and massage may also be used to relieve gas symptoms by a person.
Find out more about how to pass gas in different poses.
What are the symptoms of trapped gas?
Symptoms of trapped gas includeTrusted Source:
- bloating
- burping
- flatulence
- pain or discomfort in the abdomen
What causes excessive gas problem ?
Trusted Source gas may be caused by the following factors:
- Too much air is swallowed by the mouth
- food intolerances
- GERD
- IBS
- In the gut, there is fermentation
Summary
There is no doubt that most people will experience gas at some point in their lives. In the digestive system, it is a natural byproduct that is produced as a result of digestion. Some people experience discomfort or even pain as a result of gas.
There are several drugs available to treat gas, such as simethicone and alpha-galactosidase, which are available to relieve gas cramps. As well as treating the underlying cause of gas, such as IBS, a doctor can also prescribe medications to treat the gas as well.
In addition to natural remedies, there are also a number of foods that are known to relieve gas, such as cinnamon, ginger, and anise.
It is possible to control or prevent gas by avoiding certain foods that contribute to the formation of gas. Gas can be alleviated by gentle movements as well.
What to know about gas in the stomach
- Symptoms
- Causes
- Treatments
- Seeing a doctor
- Outlook
Gas in the stomach is usually a sign that a person is swallowing air when they eat or drink. Burping usually helps to release the gas and alleviate any bloating and discomfort.
Mild or infrequent episodes of stomach gas are not usually a cause for concern. However, frequent or persistent stomach gas can sometimes indicate an underlying gastrointestinal condition that requires treatment.
This article outlines the symptoms of stomach gas and its various causes. It also outlines the different treatment options for stomach gas and provides information about when to see a doctor.
Symptoms of stomach gas Problem.
Share on PinterestStomach gas can cause issues ranging from burping and flatulence to heartburn and indigestion.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)Trusted Source, the most common symptoms of gas in the stomach include:
- burping
- flatulence
- bloating
- abdominal pain or discomfort
In some cases, other symptoms may accompany gas in the stomach, such as:
- indigestion
- heartburn
- diarrhea
- constipation
Causes
There are various reasons why a person might experience gas.
Gas in the stomach and upper abdomen
Reasons for gas in the stomach and upper abdomen include:
Swallowing air
People usually swallow a little bit of air while eating, and this can make the stomach or upper abdomen feel full. Burping generally helps to release the gas and reduce bloating and discomfort.
The NIDDKTrusted Source note that a person swallows more air during the following:
- eating or drinking too fast
- chewing gum
- sucking on hard candy
- drinking carbonated drinks, such as soda, sparkling water, and beer
- smoking
- wearing ill-fitting dentures that reduce chewing efficiency
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD is a condition in which stomach acid and other stomach contents frequently leak out of the stomach and up into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth and stomach.
The most commonTrusted Source symptoms of GERD are acid reflux and heartburn. As a 2015 case studyTrusted Source notes, stomach gas and belching are other common symptoms of GERD.
People who experience GERD-related stomach gas may notice that their burps have a foul taste or cause them to regurgitate food.
Gas in the lower abdomen
Below are some potential causes of gas in the lower abdomen.
Fermentation
A person experiencing symptoms of gas in the lower part of their belly or abdomen may be experiencing gas from fermentation.
Stomach acid helps to break down food and pass it on to the intestines. The intestines break down the food even further in a process that sometimes releases gases.
These gases either make their way to the stomach and leave the body as a burp or travel through the intestines and leave the body as flatulence.
Some foods may produce gas more than others. The NIDDKTrusted Source list some common foods that may cause gas, including:
- greens, such as kale, cabbage, and Brussel sprouts
- vegetables, such as onions, cauliflower, and broccoli
- beans, including black, pinto, and kidney beans
- dairy products, such as cheese, yogurt, and ice cream
- high fiber foods, such as whole grains and fruits
- sugar substitutes and sweeteners, such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an umbrella term for a group of digestive symptoms that can cause pain, discomfort, and changes in bowel movements.
A person with IBS may experience an excessive amount of intestinal gas. This excess gas may lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence. Other possible symptoms of IBS include:
- constipation
- diarrhea
- bowel incontinence
- nausea
- back pain
The exact cause of IBS remains unknown. However, experts believe that it may be due to food passing through the intestines too quickly or too slowly.
Bacterial overgrowth
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is the medical term for excess bacteria in the small intestine. Experts believe that the condition is due to a lack of movement in the small intestine.
Excessive intestinal bacteria can cause a build-up of gas, which may lead to bloating and flatulence.
Other possible symptoms of SIBO inlcude:
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea or constipation
- nausea
- fatigue
In extreme cases, the small intestine may be unable to absorb sufficient nutrients from food. This may lead to complications, such as weight loss and anemia.
A 2020 studyTrusted Source notes that SIBO is a common but underdiagnosed condition, as the symptoms appear similar to other digestive disorders.
Food intolerances
Frequent bloating and intestinal gas can sometimes indicate a food intolerance. This is where the body is unable to digest certain foods properly.
Common food intolerances include:
- Lactose intolerance: Inability to digest the sugar “lactose,” found in milk and dairy products.
- Fructose intolerance: Inability to digest the fruit sugar “fructose.”
- Gluten intolerance: Inability to digest gluten proteins that exist in cereal grains.
Celiac disease is similar to gluten intolerance but more severe. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which consuming gluten causes the immune system to attack healthy cells in the small intestine.
Some general symptoms of food intolerances include:
- bloating
- flatulence
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- skin rashes and itching
Other potential causes
Some less common causes of stomach gas include:
- chronic constipation
- peptic ulcers
- hernias
- intestinal blockages
- colon cancer
Treatments for stomach gas
Some causes of stomach gas may improve with home remedies alone. Others may require over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications.
Home remedies
A person who experiences mild or infrequent episodes of stomach gas may want to try home remedies before seeking a medical diagnosis and treatment. Below are some general tips for alleviating stomach gas at home.
Lifestyle changes
Some lifestyle changes that may help to alleviate stomach gas include:
- chewing food thoroughly
- avoiding chewing gum and hard candy
- avoiding carbonated beverages
- avoiding smoking
- ensuring that dentures or other dental devices fit correctly
People may also benefit from keeping a food journal to record what and when they eat and when they experience symptoms. This will help to identify any trigger foods. After identifying the foods, a person can alter their diet to avoid those foods in the future.
Herbal remedies
Anecdotally, some people report relief from stomach gas using various herbs, such as:
- peppermint
- chamomile
- fennel
- clove
Medications
In some cases, people may require OTC or prescription medications to help alleviate stomach gas and associated symptoms.
OTC medications
People with certain food intolerances can take digestive enzymes before a meal to help their body digest problematic foods. Common examples include taking lactase to help digest milk products or taking alpha-galactosidase (Beano) to help break down carbohydrates, fiber, and protein from beans and vegetables.
For someone already experiencing gas, OTC products containing simethicone can help combine gas bubbles, making the gas easier to pass. Examples of such products include:
- Gas-X
- Imodium
- Mylanta
Prescription medications
Doctors may recommend prescription medications for people who cannot find relief from home remedies and OTC options.
The type of medication a doctor prescribes will depend on the underlying condition causing the gas. Some medications a doctor may prescribe include:
- medications to manage GERD, such as:
- antacids to alleviate heartburn
- H2 blockers to decrease the production of stomach acid
- proton pump inhibitors to reduce the production of stomach acid and help heal the esophagus
- prokinetics to help the stomach empty faster
- medications to manage IBS, such as:
- antispasmodics to alleviate abdominal pain and cramping
- laxatives to help relieve constipation
- antimotility medications to help alleviate diarrhea
- antibiotics to help treat SIBO
When to see a doctor
In many cases, gas in the stomach is not a cause for concern, and symptoms will pass with little or no treatment.
However, anyone experiencing frequent or persistent stomach gas should see their doctor for a full diagnosis.
Stomach gas that occurs alongside other symptoms, such as weight loss or changes in bowel movements, also warrants medical attention. These symptoms could indicate an underlying medical condition that requires treatment and management to prevent any long-term complications.
Outlook
Mild or occasional stomach gas is usually not a cause for concern. In such cases, people can usually find relief using simple home remedies and OTC medications.
However, a person should see their doctor if they experience frequent or persistent stomach gas. This could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires treatment or careful management.
Treatment should help alleviate symptoms while preventing the risk of further health complications.
