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Signs and Symptoms of Excessive Gas Pains

Excessive gas can buildup in your system for many reasons -- such as an ongoing ailment like irritable bowel syndrome -- or simply eating a greasy or heavy meal. Excessive gas can present with uncomfortable pain and a few other symptoms may also be present with the pain, making excessive gas even worse. If you have excessive gas, learning what to look for can help you determine this.

  1. Upper Abdomen Pain

    • Upper abdominal pains can mean serious issues -- such as heart problems or respiratory issues -- if you are feeling pains when breathing. In many cases, though pain in the upper abdomen can mean excessive gas and occurs often after we eat too fast and take in too much air. Belching or even drinking some hot tea can help soothe some of these pains, but if they don't go away after a day or two you should see your doctor to ensure it's not something more serious.

    Lower Abdomen Pain

    • Pain in your lower abdomen -- around or just below your belly button -- is another area excessive gas can present. This kind of gas gets trapped in your intestines and can be harder to expel then simply belching it out. Taking an enzyme supplement like Beano and avoiding fatty foods and dairy can help to alleviate this pain. A warmed compress and laying a fetal position can also provide immediate relief too. Again, if pain lasts more than one or two days see your doctor.

    Constant Belching

    • Constant belching is a symptom that can accompany excessive gas pain. This is a sign that there is air trapped in your stomach which hasn't passed through: this often occurs after eating a large meal. While you might think it rude, belching helps with excessive gas, so excuse yourself when you feel the need and do so -- instead of holding it in -- which can only increase gas pains.

    Feeling Flatulent

    • Being flatulent is an unpleasant and embarrassing symptom of painful gas, but it is also a very helpful one. Like belching, flatulence helps your body to get rid of some of that gas, but it can take time. If you are feeling flatulent and experiencing lower stomach pains this is probably excessive gas and you should excuse yourself and wait for it to pass.

    Bloating

    • Bloating is a common symptom that accompanies along with gas pain and it can make you feel heavy and sluggish. If you notice a tightness around your waistline that isn't common, and are feeling upper or lower abdomen pains, gas is most likely the culprit. Avoid eating salty foods or greasy, fatty foods when you are feeling bloated; as these can contribute to your bloat.

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