Gas & Stomach Problems

Most people pass gas at least 12 times daily, according to the Mayo Clinic. The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) points out that flatulence and belching provide relief from air we swallow when we eat. Some individuals, though, experience excessive amounts of gas or do not expel all of it. Mayo doctors note that this can lead to stomach discomfort.

Gas

• Although gas is common, the Mayo Clinic notes that not only can it be embarrassing, but it can become an annoyance and potential health problem. Gas is often accompanied by bloating and intense stomach pain. The pain can be so bad that you mistake it for a heart attack (upper left side pain), appendicitis or gallstones (both, right side). Mayo experts advise checking with your doctor if you experience gas more than normal, especially if it is accompanied by worrisome signs, such as bleeding, weight loss or fever.

Nonucler Stomach Pain

• Dyspepsia is marked by stomach pain.

  Nonulcer stomach pain is medically referred to as functional dyspepsia. The Mayo Clinic explains that dyspepsia is a set of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, belching and nausea that have no obvious cause. These signs are often mistaken for an ulcer. Dyspepsia is known as a functional disorder because of its lack of explanation. The Mayo Clinic does know that excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption, smoking and taking certain anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin, increase your chances of experiencing dyspepsia.

Stomach Ulcers

• Peptic ulcers occurring in the stomach are called gastric ulcers. The associated pain comes from open sores or lesions in the stomach's lining. The number-one cause of stomach ulcers is not stress or diet--going against traditional beliefs. A pesky bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is most often responsible, according to doctors at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). H. pylori weakens the stomach's protective lining, leading to ulcers in some cases. Lifestyle, diet, smoking and drinking can contribute to ulcer formation.

Conventional Treatment

• Broccoli: good for you, but...

  For ulcers, antibiotics usually clear up an H. pylori infection. For all types of stomach related issues, including excess gas, Mayo and AGA doctors suggest assessing your diet. Laying off of foods that trigger your stomach upset and excess flatus is a start. Many people's bellies take issue with foods and drinks, such as broccoli, peaches, prunes, bran cereals, carbonated beverages, ice cream, fried foods, fatty foods and dairy products. Over-the-counter medications can provide relief as well. These include Beano and Gas-X, advises Mayo.

Home Remedies

• Biking can relieve gas.

  In addition to tweaking your diet, change the way you live. The Mayo Clinic claims that gas, for instance, can be curbed by exercising (bicycling has been proven to help for some), reducing stress and dropping the cigarette habit. Mayo also recommends sipping a cup of peppermint tea for relief. The menthol in peppermint soothes the digestive tract, resulting in gas relief, but potentially hypes up heartburn and acid reflux.