What Causes Gas?
Everyone experiences gas, in fact, the average person passes gas more than 10 times a day. While completely normal, passing gas or belching can be embarrassing. A wide variety of factors contribute to gas including the food we eat, food allergies or sensitivities, and some digestive disorders. Foods that are high in fiber like beans and vegetables, dairy products, and carbonated beverages are common contributors to wind. People with sensitivities to dairy or gluten may also experience more gas after eating. Some digestive disorders create more gas in the gastrointestinal tract, including:
- Celiac disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Diabetes
- Eating disorders
- GERD
- Gastroparesis
- Intestinal obstructions
- Peptic Ulcers
- Ulcerative colitis
When Should I See a Doctor About Excessive Gas?
You should seek medical advice if your gas is severe or persistent, or if it interferes with your normal activities. If your gas is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, unexplained weight loss, bloody stool, or heartburn, it may be a sign of something more serious and you should make an appointment with one of the doctors at Gastroenterology of Westchester for assessment and treatment.
How Is Gas Relief Provided?
The doctors at Gastroenterology of Westchester have a variety of gas reducing tools at their disposal. Treatment will depend on the cause of the individual patient’s excessive gas. Dietary changes may be suggested including limiting carbonated beverages, fermentable vegetables, and artificial sweeteners. Those who are lactose intolerant should limit their consumption of dairy products. The doctors may suggest medications to aid digestion and limit the amount of gas produced. If the gas is due to another digestive disorder, the doctors will provide a customized treatment plan to address the condition causing the gas. If you gastrointestinal gas is causing you distress or interrupting your day to day activities make an appointment with the physicians at Gastroenterology of Westchester. They will help to identify the cause of your gas and provide treatment to help you feel better and able to get back to your life.