Gastroenterology: Gas, Bloating, and Burping
Gastroenterology: Gas, Bloating, and Burping
Gas, bloating and burping: they’re like the three cousins that run rampant through a family picnic, making everyone uncomfortable and embarrassed. Let our Gastroenterology experts help you get control over these troublemakers!
The Big Three
Gas, bloating, and burping in excess can be uncomfortable. They often come with discomfort in the abdomen–specifically, in the natural bends of the colon under the liver (upper-right of the abdomen) and under the spleen (upper-left). This is because these areas can often trap gas, and that leads to all sorts of discomfort and even potential embarrassment. While there are multiple causes for higher levels of gas in the body, most of what we think is “excess gas” is actually just “normal gas” that we are more aware of. For example, certain health conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome, can cause the body to be overly sensitive to normal levels of gas.
Info From Experts
Do you have more questions about gas, bloating, and burping? Let our Gastroenterology experts give you the answers!
- Gas production. Where does the gas in the body come from? Gas can either be ingested (which is natural when air is swallowed during eating and drinking) or produced by bacteria in the colon. Occasionally, bacterial overgrowth causes excess amounts of gas.
- Increased gas. Although the “normal” amount of gas in our body can be annoying on its own, increased gas is even worse. Swallowing too much air when eating can cause increased gas; certain foods, like beans, potatoes, and corn cause gas; and certain health conditions, like lactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, or diseases that have increased gas production as a side effect can also alter natural gas levels in the body.
- Treatment. Treatment for excessive gas, bloating and burping usually involves reflecting on what causes the problems (so you can avoid trigger foods) and using over-the-counter medications. However, if you see no change in the condition, it’s important to contact a doctor right away; this could be a sign of something more serious.
Interested in more info on gas, bloating, and burping? Looking for Gastroenterology experts? today!
