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Symptoms of Gas in the Stomach

Several classic symptoms indicate gas in the stomach. These include the passing of gas by burping or flatulence as well as pain or bloating in the stomach. Many people find these obvious symptoms embarrassing because they do not realize how common it is for the average person to have gas and for the body to need some way to expel it. Common or not, it is advised to seek medical attention if the symptoms persist or worsen.

  1. Natural Creation of Gas

    • The fact is that these symptoms of gas in the stomach manifest themselves in the intestines every day. The average person can create as much as three pints of gas per day. This can cause the need to pass gas as many as 15 times a day. The gases are produced by the food that is eaten. People do not realize that a portion of the foods they take in turns into methane, carbon dioxide or nitrogen. This is where the gas comes from, but the unpleasant aroma that accompanies the passing of the gas is produced by the bacteria in the large intestine.

    Irritable Bowel Syndrome

    • Some people suffer from a disorder directly related to why they have symptoms of gas in the stomach. This disorder is called Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Those who have this disorder suffer bloating of the abdomen, increased gas and intolerance to certain foods. Physicians are not certain why this condition occurs in some people, even when family members eat exactly the same, while others are not bothered by it. The feeling is that the walls of the intestinal muscles contract more often and this gives rise to pain in the intestines.

    Crohn's Disease

    • Sometimes the symptoms of gas in the stomach are caused by other disorders like Crohn's disease. This disorder, also known as colitis, is an inflammation of the bowel and can be painful. This condition is treated with multiple medications to try to dispel pain and control the inflammation and potential infections.

    Other Causes

    • Despite the fact that passing gas is a normal function of the human body, if it is excessive and is accompanied by severe pain then it can be a sign of other problems. If the condition becomes seriously uncomfortable, it is important to see a health care provider. A person with severe symptoms of gas in the stomach could have signs of colon cancer, lactose intolerance or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Only a health care provider can perform the right tests to determine if there is anything seriously wrong or to reassure you that all you need is a change in your diet.

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