Few people discuss such a delicate problem as the frequent release of gases from the anus. Making characteristic sounds indicating excessive gas formation in the intestines is a sign of low culture in the minds of most people.
That is why such a problem is usually hushed up, trying to solve it on their own. In this case, a person often does not even see a doctor, although such a manifestation of digestive disorders can be a signal of many chronic ailments.
Finding out the reason why gases often come out of the anus can be difficult.
Overeating is one of the reasons for the release of gases from the anus
Flatulence, which is what is called excess inside the intestines, may be due to a number of different factors:
- excess carbohydrates, sugar in consumed food;
- excessive amounts of fiber in the diet;
- a person lacks the enzymes necessary for the complete digestion of food bolus;
- disturbance of peristalsis, primarily the appearance of intestinal spasms, as well as constipation;
- binge eating;
- too frequent consumption of food, when the previous amount of food does not have time to be digested in the stomach before a new portion of food arrives;
- incompatibility of some food components, and each person may have his own “forbidden” combinations of foods;
- consumption of legumes, cabbage and some other types of food, the digestion of which releases a large amount of gases;
- frequent stress, as a result of which there is a disruption in the production of enzymes, the appearance of cramps in the intestines, etc.
Also flatulence may be caused by chronic diseases of the digestive system(, dysbacteriosis), therefore, if gas appears for a long time for no apparent reason, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist.
Causes of gas accumulation in the intestines
As a matter of fact, the process of formation of a certain amount of gases in the intestines during the digestion of food is a natural phenomenon. Gaseous substances are produced by microorganisms involved in the breakdown of organic substances from the food bolus.
If gases suddenly stop being produced, this can be a dangerous symptom - for example, signaling intestinal obstruction.
Normally, such gases are formed in a volume of up to 600-700 ml/day. In this case, a person only occasionally feels a slight urge to “free” the intestines from excess air, for example, immediately after sleep or when visiting the toilet.
Dysbacteriosis is one of the reasons for the accumulation of gases in the intestines
If the volume of gaseous substances produced reaches 900 ml/day or more, we can talk about the development of flatulence. In the presence of such a disease, excess air does not always leave the intestines freely. Often a person feels bloating, cramps and even pain, but cannot get rid of gas, which causes him discomfort.
Causes of gas accumulation in the rectum may be different:
- , as a result of which it is difficult to pass air due to the presence of a large amount of feces in the intestine;
- eating an excessively large amount of food that causes increased gas formation: dishes made from peas, beans, etc.;
- impaired intestinal motility due to stress, the appearance of cramps in the abdominal area;
- dysbacteriosis, in which the number of “harmful” bacteria begins to prevail over the beneficial microflora that breaks down food.
If a person is bothered by constant gases in the anus, it is better to find out the reasons for this phenomenon from a doctor. You may need to take special medications to normalize the composition of intestinal bacteria or more thorough treatment.
Why does gas pass from the rectum too often?
Both the delay in the passage of gases and their excessively frequent “exhausts” disturb a person and cause him discomfort. In the latter case, the patient is sometimes forced to refuse to communicate with people and attend various events, so as not to accidentally embarrass himself while in society.
If there is quite intense rumbling in the rectum and gases often pass after eating, the reasons for this may be the same as for excessive gas formation in general. Most often, there is seething in the stomach and the passage of air with a clearly unpleasant aroma happens for reasons:
- abuse of meat foods, especially in combination with flour dishes;
- after eating legumes;
- disordered eating, when the digestive system does not have time to adapt to too frequent or, on the contrary, rare meals;
- drinking carbonated drinks;
- swallowing air while eating.
If possible, you should not prevent the passage of gases from the intestines. It is better to find an opportunity to retire to allow the body to free itself from excess air from the digestive system.
Otherwise, the intestines may stretch until the intestinal walls appear (protrusions).
How to deal with excessive gas formation
Following a diet helps eliminate symptoms of flatulence
The main method of combating flatulence is to eliminate the influence of those factors that led to the appearance of this delicate problem. It is very good if a person himself guesses what errors in nutrition provoked such a situation. Otherwise, it is better to consult a doctor who can find the cause of increased gas formation.
Adjust your diet
The following actions will most effectively help eliminate the manifestations of flatulence:
- compliance with the diet: meals - from 3 to 6 times a day, but not more often than 2.5 hours between the next snacks;
- Do not take legume dishes together with carbohydrate or meat foods. So, it is better to prepare pea soup without meat, and preferably eat it without bread;
- give up the habit of drinking carbonated drinks, especially during meals;
- do not abuse sweets and baked goods;
- Do not take raw fruits with cooked foods. So, it is better to eat apples 20-30 minutes before the main meal or even earlier;
- stop using chewing gum, as chewing gum causes air to be swallowed;
- eat food slowly, chewing it well.
Take action
If the appearance of flatulence cannot be avoided, you can take measures to get rid of bloating:
- take a tablet of activated carbon, preparations based on it or a similar effect;
- brew chamomile tea to ease digestion, or prepare dill water;
- lightly massage the abdominal area in a clockwise circular motion;
- undergo a course of treatment for dysbacteriosis using special medications (recommended only on the advice of a doctor).
If gases constantly accumulate in the rectum, a gastroenterologist will tell you how to get rid of it.
Prolonged manifestations of flatulence can signal serious digestive problems, so self-medication can be dangerous.
Provided that you eat rationally and avoid significant errors in food intake, episodes of gas discharge will be very rare and unnoticeable. This state of the digestive system will be a sign of good health and normal functioning of the intestines.
Conclusion
Rare cases of bloating can be dealt with on your own by normalizing your diet and refusing to eat certain foods. If there is no positive result, it is better to consult a specialist, which will allow you to diagnose intestinal problems or other ailments in a timely manner and thus maintain your health.
Many people are familiar with bloating and the feeling of bubbling lava inside. Such symptoms are called flatulence and in most cases do not pose a danger to its owner. This phenomenon is rarely a harbinger of fatal diseases, but it causes a lot of discomfort, especially in public places. Read on to learn more about the accumulation of gases in the intestines, how to get rid of the unpleasant problem and prevent its reoccurrence.
Flatulence is the excessive formation and accumulation of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract. Flatulence often accompanies pathology of the digestive organs.
There are 3 main channels for the appearance of gas in the intestines:
- Air entering through the mouth.
- Gases forming in the large intestine.
- Gases leaking from the circulatory system.
In a normally functioning body, approximately 600 ml of gases are released through the rectum every day. The unpleasant odor that accompanies this process is caused by the presence of hydrogen sulfide and similar compounds. Gases are formed in the large intestine as a result of the influence of microflora on organic compounds that have not been digested by the small intestine.
The forming gas bubbles form a foam-like film covering the walls of the intestinal mucosa. They complicate the digestion process, reduce the activity of enzyme interaction with food and impair the digestibility of beneficial elements.
Types of flatulence
- Nutritional. Occurs due to excessive consumption of foods high in starch or fiber.
- Dynamic. Caused by disruptions in peristalsis.
- Flatulence associated with disorders of the digestive processes. Characterized by problems with gas absorption and dysbacteriosis.
- Mechanical. It is observed when there are obstacles in the path of food movement. Tumors are most often encountered as barriers.
- Psychogenic. It is a consequence of mental disorders.
- Circulatory. Triggered by circulatory problems. It is observed when blood stagnates in the veins of the intestine, characteristic of varicose veins.
The most common occurrence is increased gas formation caused by disruptions in the digestive processes.
If flatulence lasts more than one week, you should consult a gastroenterologist and
The main symptoms of flatulence
Excess gases in the intestines always become a source of discomfort and interfere with leading a full lifestyle.
- Abdominal bloating. The abdomen can increase one and a half times its original volume.
- Rumbling. Sound is a constant companion of gas formation.
- Heaviness. The accumulation of a large number of gas bubbles leads to distension of the abdominal area and a feeling of heaviness.
- Pain. It is concentrated in any of the hypochondriums and is cramping in nature.
- Belching and hiccups. They are not typical manifestations of flatulence, but are often found in advanced forms of the disease.
Causes of flatulence
Increased gas formation is not a dangerous phenomenon for the body. There are many causative agents for this unpleasant process, some even have a psychological basis. Among the main irritants are the following.
Table 1. Main causative agents of gas formation
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Talking while eating | Any conversations while chewing food are fraught with swallowing excess air. It is not absorbed into the blood and settles on the intestinal walls, causing increased formation of gases. |
| Increased emotional excitability | When experiencing strong emotions, regardless of whether they are colored with positive or negative connotations, food enters the intestines at an accelerated pace. Such a rapid passage through the stages of the digestion process leads to poor digestion and excessive gas formation. |
| Meal schedule | Snacking on the go without thoroughly chewing food is fraught with abundant accumulation of gas bubbles. |
| Regular stressful situations | Nervousness awakens the stress hormone, which leads to unpleasant consequences for the entire body. Doctors often compare irritable bowel syndrome to intestinal depression. It is curious that with a depressed mental state, as well as with irritation of this digestive organ, a hormonal imbalance is noted. |
| Premenstrual syndrome | The processes that take place in the body before the onset of menstruation include an increase in the formation of gases. |
| Constant constipation | In addition to the fact that constipation contributes to excessive gas formation, it makes it difficult for gas bubbles to exit the rectum. |
| Celiac disease | Digestive pathology caused by damage to the intestinal villi. This leads to a slowdown in the digestion process and absorption of gas bubbles. |
| Products | There are a number of products that help increase gas formation: black bread; apples; carbonated drinks and kvass; all porridges, except rice, buckwheat or wheat; peaches; potato; grape; mushrooms; sugar; cabbage; Chinese salad; pears; legumes Patients suffering from lactase deficiency are prohibited from consuming any dairy products. |
In addition, flatulence appears in the presence of the following diseases:
- dysbacteriosis;
- pathology of the pancreas.
Accumulation of gases is often observed during acute intestinal infections.
Attention! If flatulence occurs with annoying regularity, you should immediately undergo a diagnostic examination.
Treatment of flatulence
Since flatulence is not an independent disease, but a symptom, the specialist, first of all, tries to detect the pathology that contributes to increased gas formation. After identifying the cause, therapy is prescribed, which includes 3 stages.
Table 2. Stages of anti-flatulence therapy
| Stages | Description | Recommended drugs |
|---|---|---|
| Relief of main symptoms. | The doctor prescribes medications, the action of which is aimed at quickly relieving spasms in the intestines. If gases enter the body with food, the doctor explains the rules for eating food. | "No-shpa"; "Duspatalin"; "Drotaverine"; "Papaverine". |
| Pathogenetic therapy. | Medications are prescribed to help the body cope with excessive gas formation. As a rule, a specialist prescribes several groups of drugs: 1. Sorbents that promote the removal of toxins and waste products from the intestines. 2. Medicines containing enzymes to improve the functioning of the digestive system. 3. Medicines whose action is aimed at extinguishing foam in which intestinal gases form and accumulate. They help the intestines absorb and promptly remove gas bubbles from the rectum. | "Smecta"; "Phosphalugel"; "Pancreatin"; "Mezim"; "Espumizan"; "Simethicone"; "Bibikol." |
| Eliminating the cause of gas formation. | An accurate diagnosis helps prescribe the correct course of treatment. If flatulence is caused by benign or malignant neoplasms, surgical intervention is advisable. If pathologies of the intestinal microflora are observed, it is advisable to use preparations containing bacteria to restore the flora. If the cause of discomfort is constipation, the use of stool thinners is recommended. | "Bifiform"; "Cerucal"; "Linex"; "Lactobacterin". |
One of the most popular drugs for reducing the amount of gas formation is Espumisan. It is suitable for use even among infants, especially during attacks of colic.
Note! The product should be used only as prescribed by the treating doctor. Self-medication for flatulence is not recommended, since the diseases that cause it can have serious consequences for the body.
Therapeutic diet
Patients suffering from excessive gas formation need to radically reconsider their diet. In most cases, the cause of intestinal discomfort lies in the consumption of low-quality foods or the abuse of food that promotes the formation of gases.
The food culture of modern people leaves much to be desired. At the first manifestations of flatulence, you need to rationally organize your food calendar. A number of products are prohibited during the treatment period:
- cabbage;
- legumes;
- beer;
- grape;
- kvass;
- bananas;
- prunes;
- gooseberry;
- fast food products;
- carbonated drinks;
- black bread;
- oranges;
- sugar;
- bananas;
- buns;
- lemons;
- fatty meats;
- tomatoes;
- raisin;
- coffee;
- alcohol;
- breakfast cereals;
- chocolate;
- products made from whole grain flour;
- spices;
- spicy dishes.
Poor nutrition is the most common cause of gas accumulation in the intestines.
Legumes are especially dangerous. Due to the fact that the stomach does not have the necessary resources to digest these cereals, they undergo intensive processing in the intestines, resulting in gases. Among legumes, lentils have the least gas-forming effect.
Also, it is not advisable to eat raw vegetables. To reduce the number of gas bubbles, these gifts of nature should be processed. Blanching, stewing or boiling reduces the amount of fiber that contributes to the development of flatulence. Experts recommend seasoning vegetable salads with yogurt. With normal tolerance, fermented milk products improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and normalize the intestinal microflora.
- fermented milk products;
- buckwheat, rice and millet porridge;
- carrots and beets;
- boiled lean meat;
- wheat bread made from wholemeal flour.
You should eat small amounts of food up to 5 times a day.
Traditional medicine recipes
In addition to medications, there are a large number of home remedies that effectively relieve unpleasant symptoms. It is advisable to consult a doctor before using them.
Table 3. Recipes for folk remedies
| Means | Cooking method | Method of use |
|---|---|---|
| Dill decoction. | This universal remedy can be given even to small children. 1 tbsp. dill seeds pour 1 glass of boiled water, leave for 3 hours and strain. | 3 times a day, 100 ml 1 hour before meals. |
| Chamomile based drink. | 1 tbsp. pour 1 cup of boiling water over chamomile flowers, cook in a water bath for 15 minutes, leave for at least 3 hours and strain. | 3 times a day, 2 tbsp. 30 minutes before meals. |
| Lemon peel. | Thoroughly washed lemon peel helps reduce gas formation. | Chew the crust several times a day in between meals. |
| Activated carbon. | It is necessary to take the drug at the rate of 1 tablet per 10 kg of body weight. If the patient suffers from gastritis or ulcers, you should consult a gastroenterologist about the advisability of using “coal” treatment. Due to the fact that charcoal can cause slight constipation, it is advisable to refrain from using it for people prone to such bowel disorders. | The recommended number of tablets is 1 time per day before meals. |
| Mint tea. | 1 tsp pour fresh or dried mint with 1 glass of boiled water and let it brew. | 3 times a day after meals. |
Cumin and fennel will also help remove accumulated gases from the rectum.
Getting rid of flatulence is not very difficult. The main task in this process is making a correct diagnosis.
Note! In order to relieve unpleasant symptoms as quickly as possible, you should consult a specialist in a timely manner and strictly adhere to the rules of treatment.
Video - How to get rid of flatulence
Bloating is a common ailment associated with indigestion, as a result of which gas begins to accumulate in the intestines. In itself, this phenomenon is not dangerous: in isolated cases, the problem is resolved without medical intervention and the person happily forgets about the recent discomfort.
If the condition becomes chronic, and accompanying symptoms in the form of bursting heaviness, pain, vomiting, heartburn or belching interfere with a full life, you need to consult a gastroenterologist. Often, the accumulation of gases in the intestines is associated with pathological changes in the digestive tract.
Studies have shown that the average person produces 0.6–1.8 liters of intestinal gas per day. It enters the body from two sources: when swallowing air (exogenous) and produced by intestinal bacteria (endogenous). It consists of varying amounts of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen and methane. The first three come from swallowed air, and the latter are byproducts of the breakdown of food debris from probiotic bacteria that inhabit the colon.
Careful analysis of the gas emitted by humans has shown that it consists mainly of exogenous air and only a small amount of endogenous air, so most often it does not smell. However, gut bacteria produce several sulfur-containing compounds that may be the primary culprits of malodor. The human nose detects hydrogen sulfide and ammonia even in microscopic concentrations. Therefore, bloating and the inability to control the passage of foul-smelling “air” can have certain social consequences.
Causes of gases
The development of flatulence is provoked by various disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and enzyme deficiency. Such disorders lead to the fact that food is poorly digested, enters the intestines in an undissolved form, decomposes in it, forming a lot of gas. In addition, bloating is often a consequence of swallowing large amounts of air, smoking, and eating foods high in fiber.
Products that cause increased gas formation Increased gas formation, manifested by belching or flatulence, may indicate the following pathological conditions:
- autoimmune pancreatitis;
- celiac disease;
- Crohn's disease;
- ulcerative colitis;
- diabetes;
- irritable bowel syndrome;
- eating disorders;
- gastroparesis;
- lactose intolerance;
- dysbacteriosis;
- endometriosis and cesarean section in women;
- peptic ulcer;
- intestinal obstruction;
- gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Other causes of belly bloating include:
- helminthiasis in children or adults;
- mental disorders, stress;
- taking medications;
- systematic overeating;
- late pregnancy;
- abnormalities of intestinal development;
- postoperative period.
Video: Why flatulence is scary
Accurate diagnosis
Determining the cause of flatulence is based on the symptoms and course of the disease, the specifics of which the doctor clarifies during an oral conversation with the patient. Subsequently, a physical examination is carried out - examination, palpation and percussion of the abdomen, as well as a number of laboratory and instrumental tests:
- General and biochemical blood test.
- Bacteriological examination to determine lacto- and intestinal microflora.
- Coprogram of feces.
- Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity.
- Colonoscopy or fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy.
- X-ray of the examined organ.
After a thorough examination and identification of the reason why gases are constantly formed, the doctor will determine the method of therapy and adjust the patient’s diet.
How to get rid of gases in the intestines
Treatment of flatulence is always comprehensive, aimed at improving the general well-being of the patient, eliminating signs of bloating and cramps in the stomach and intestines. Therapy includes the following activities:
- Correction and adherence to a gentle diet.
- Removal of excess gases from the lumen of the colon.
- Normalization of peristalsis.
- Restoration of microflora.
- Elimination of provoking pathologies.
Medicines
It is impossible to remove gases in the intestines with medications alone. However, taking pharmaceuticals can significantly alleviate the patient’s condition and reduce the intensity of discomfort. The most prescribed remedies for flatulence are:
- Probiotics, which contain live strains of microorganisms. They produce “friendly” bacteria and inhibit pathogens, thereby restoring the intestinal flora. The most famous drugs in this group are Bifiform, Linex, Simbiter.
- Prebiotics contain dietary fiber necessary to maintain the vital activity of native microflora. They help with diarrhea and poisoning, when the stomach is seething or feels heavy. Represented by the following list: Hilak-Forte, Lysozyme, Duphalac.
- Prokinetics are recommended to stimulate the passage of food through the esophagus. Such means are Motilium, Ganaton, Motilak.
- Sorbents designed to remove toxins, gases, and allergens from the intestines. They are also used for slagging in the body. Representatives of this group of medications are Smecta, Enterosgel, Phosphalugel, activated carbon.
- Enzymes are aimed at restoring the digestive tract. The most popular drugs are Pancreatin, Festal, Mezim.
- Defoamers are designed to quickly relieve symptoms of flatulence, as they normalize intestinal motility and promote the absorption of gas bubbles by its walls. These medications include Espumisan, Simethicone, Maalox, Pepsan.
- Laxatives are prescribed for bloating with constipation to improve motility. Most often, the patient is recommended to use Normaze, Duphalac, Fitolax, Bisacodyl or glycerin suppositories.
- Antispasmodics are intended to relieve severe pain due to flatulence. As a rule, these are No-Shpa, Drotaverine, Spazmalgon.
Video: Gases in the intestines, how to deal with them
Folk remedies
Alternative treatment methods are no less effective in combating gas pollution. Unlike pharmaceuticals, they are more harmless and are always at hand, so they are simply irreplaceable at home.
Chamomile decoction:
- 1 tbsp. l. dry herbs, pour 200 ml of boiling water and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Leave for half an hour covered in a warm place.
- Take orally twice a day (morning and evening) 30 minutes before meals, 100 ml at a time.
- The course of treatment is 3 weeks.
Herbal infusion:
- Mix dry raw materials of St. John's wort, yarrow and marsh dried grass (20 g each).
- Take 3 tbsp. l. and pour 1 liter of boiling water.
- Leave for 2 hours, then filter.
- Drink ½ tbsp. 5 times a day.
Anise seed decoction:
- Pour 20 g of dry raw material into 1 liter of water.
- Boil and leave until completely cooled.
- After filtering, take ½ tbsp. three times a day.
Diet
A balanced diet is an important component of complex therapy for flatulence. First of all, it is necessary to exclude from the menu foods that cause excess gas:
- Beans and lentils.
- Vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.
- Bran.
- Dairy products containing lactose.
- Fructose, which is present in sweet fruits and is used as a sweetener in soft drinks and other foods.
- Sorbitol, a sugar substitute found in some candies and artificial sweeteners.
- Carbonated drinks.
- Alcohol.
Dishes allowed for consumption normalize stools and help eliminate intestinal gases. The menu should include:
- Dairy products.
- Porridges cooked in water (buckwheat, rice, oatmeal).
- Low-fat varieties of fish and meat (rabbit, turkey, chicken) stewed or baked.
- Boiled vegetables.
- Wheat bread and crackers.
- Natural herbal tea and pure water.
If gases do not pass
When a patient needs urgent help to relieve a condition, a rectal tube can be useful. However, it can be used only in rare cases, if gases do not spontaneously pass away. In such a situation, you can also use herbal preparations and homeopathic remedies - dill water, fennel tea, since they are harmless even for a child.
Gases in pregnant women
Approximately 70% of women during gestation face the problem of flatulence and bloating, which is associated with a number of reasons: hormonal and enzyme imbalances, lack of physical activity, exacerbation of chronic gastrointestinal pathologies and, of course, mechanical compression of the intestines.
Drug therapy during this period is undesirable, so you need to get rid of the problem in other ways:
- Strict adherence to diet.
- Moderate physical activity (hiking, yoga, swimming, water aerobics).
- Taking approved medications (Espumizan, Iberogast) and traditional medicine (mint, valerian, fennel).
Prevention of flatulence
To avoid digestive tract disorders, accompanied by constipation, diarrhea and increased gas formation in the intestines, it is necessary to pay special attention to proper nutrition and an active lifestyle.
- First of all, you need to give up snacking.
- The food consumed must be balanced and contain useful micronutrients.
- Drink enough clean water (at least 1.5 liters per day).
- Eliminate gas-forming foods and liquids from your diet.
- Quit smoking and alcohol.
- Switch to fractional meals (eat often, but little by little).
Exercises
Abdominal muscle training can also help with bloating. This type of load will allow excess gas to leave the intestines, reduce pain and bloating.
Most diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are accompanied by such an unpleasant phenomenon as increased gas formation or flatulence. Excessive accumulation of gases in the intestines can signal problems in the digestive system and indicate the development of certain diseases.
Many are embarrassed by these manifestations and put off visiting a doctor, attributing the discomfort to errors in nutrition. However, it is necessary to find out the cause of flatulence, which causes significant inconvenience to the patient and the people around him, and begin treatment.
Increased gas formation can occur when eating foods high in fiber or overeating. These factors lead to disruption of the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and the emergence of a specific problem, which many patients are embarrassed to discuss. Normally, the body of a healthy person necessarily contains about 0.9 liters of gases produced by microorganisms.
During normal operation of the digestive system, only 0.1-0.5 liters of gases are removed from the intestines during the day, while with flatulence the volume of waste gases can reach three liters. This state of involuntary release of foul-smelling gases, accompanied by sharp characteristic sounds, is called flatus and indicates dysfunction in the digestive system.
Intestinal gases are produced from five main components:
- oxygen,
- nitrogen,
- carbon dioxide,
- hydrogen,
- methane
They are given an unpleasant odor by sulfur-containing substances produced by bacteria in the large intestine. Understanding the reasons that cause this phenomenon will help you cope with the problem and get rid of gases in the intestines.
The accumulation of gases in the intestines can be caused by many reasons:
- Flatulence is caused by consuming foods that cause fermentation processes in the body (kvass, beer, black bread, kombucha).
- If the diet is dominated by foods that contribute to the formation of gases. These are cabbage, legumes, potatoes, grapes, apples, carbonated drinks.
- Increased gas formation is observed in people with lactose intolerance and is caused by the consumption of dairy products.
In addition, flatulence often occurs in various pathological conditions of the body. This could be intestinal dysbiosis, acute intestinal infections, irritable bowel syndrome, or gastrointestinal diseases such as:
- chronic pancreatitis,
- cirrhosis of the liver,
- colitis,
- enteritis
In some cases, symptoms of gas in the intestines cause disorders of the nervous system and frequent stress conditions. The cause of discomfort may be haste and excessive swallowing of air while eating (aerophagia).
Dysbiotic causes that arise when the normal intestinal microflora is disrupted can cause excessive gas formation. In this case, normal bacteria (lacto- and bifidobacteria) are suppressed by bacteria of opportunistic microflora (E. coli, anaerobes).
Symptoms of increased gas content in the intestines (flatulence)
The main symptoms of excessive gas formation:
- Characteristic cramping pain in the abdomen, a feeling of fullness and a constant feeling of discomfort. Painful sensations are caused by a reflex spasm of the intestinal walls, which occurs when its walls are stretched by an increased volume of gas.
- Bloating, manifested by an increase in its volume due to the accumulation of gas
- Belching caused by the backflow of gas from the stomach during dysphagia
- Rumbling in the abdomen that occurs when gases mix with the liquid contents of the intestines
- Nausea accompanying digestive problems. Occurs when toxins are formed and the content of incomplete food digestion products in the intestines increases.
- Constipation or diarrhea. Increased gas formation in most cases is accompanied by similar stool disorders
- Flatulence. A sharp release of gas from the rectum, accompanied by a characteristic sound and an unpleasant hydrogen sulfide odor.
General symptoms of gas in the intestines can be manifested by rapid heartbeat (read the article: arrhythmia, a burning sensation in the heart area. Such conditions provoke pinching of the vagus nerve by swollen intestinal loops and upward displacement of the diaphragm.
In addition, the patient is caused by intoxication of the body and depressive states with mood swings. There is a constant general malaise as a result of incomplete absorption of nutrients and improper bowel function.
There is a lot of gas in the intestines - what causes characteristic symptoms?
Strong gases in the intestines are caused by foods rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber and starch.
Carbohydrates
Of the carbohydrates, the most powerful provocateurs are:
Alimentary fiber
Contained in all products and can be soluble or insoluble. Soluble dietary fiber (pectins) swell in the intestines and form a gel-like mass.
In this form, they reach the large intestine, where, when they are broken down, the process of gas formation occurs. Insoluble dietary fiber passes through the gastrointestinal tract practically unchanged and does not contribute to increased gas formation.
Almost all foods containing starch increase the formation of gases in the intestines. Potatoes, wheat, peas and other legumes, and corn contain a lot of starch. The exception is rice, which contains starch, but does not cause bloating or flatulence.
How is diagnosis carried out?
If a patient complains that he constantly has gas in the intestines, the doctor is obliged to exclude the presence of serious diseases, for which a comprehensive examination of the patient is carried out. It includes physical examination, that is, listening and tapping, and instrumental methods.
Most often, an X-ray of the abdominal cavity is performed, which reveals the presence of gases and the height of the diaphragm. To estimate the amount of gases, rapid introduction of argon into the intestines is used. In this case, it is possible to measure the volume of intestinal gases displaced by argon. In addition, the following diagnostic methods are used:
- FEGDS– examination of the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract using a special flexible tube with lighting and a miniature camera at the end. This method allows you to take a piece of tissue for examination, if necessary, that is, do a biopsy.
- Colonoscopy. Visual examination of the large intestine with a special device with a camera at the end.
- Coprogram. Laboratory research, stool analysis for enzymatic insufficiency of the digestive system.
- Stool culture. Using this analysis, the presence of intestinal dysbiosis is detected and disturbances in the intestinal microflora are confirmed.
In case of chronic belching, diarrhea and unmotivated weight loss, an endoscopic examination may be prescribed to exclude suspicion of intestinal cancer. In patients with frequent flatulence (gas production), dietary habits are carefully studied in order to exclude from the diet foods that provoke bloating and flatulence.
If lactose deficiency is suspected, the patient is prescribed lactose tolerance tests. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a study of the patient's daily diet, during which the patient must keep records of his daily diet in a special diary for a certain period of time.
If a patient complains that gases do not pass away in the intestines, frequent bloating and severe pain, the doctor should conduct an examination to exclude intestinal obstruction, ascites (fluid accumulation) or any inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
A thorough examination, adjustment of the diet, and exclusion of provoking factors that cause flatulence will answer the question of why gases are formed in excess quantities in the intestines and what measures to take to get rid of this unpleasant phenomenon.
How to treat severe accumulation of gases in the intestines?
Complex treatment of flatulence includes symptomatic, etiotropic and pathogenetic therapy. But it should be remembered that if the cause of the formation of excess gases is a disease, then the underlying disease must be treated first.
Symptomatic therapy should be aimed at reducing pain and includes the use of antispasmodics (drotaverine, no-spa). If flatulence is caused by aerophagia, measures are taken to reduce the swallowing of air during meals.
Pathogenetic therapy combats excess gas formation with the help of:
- Sorbents that bind and remove toxic substances from the body (enterosgel, phosphalugel). Adsorbents such as activated carbon are not recommended for long-term use due to severe side effects.
- Enzymatic preparations containing digestive enzymes and improving the functioning of the digestive system (pancreatin).
- Defoamers that destroy foam, in the form of which gases accumulate in the intestines and improve the absorption capacity of the organ. This group of drugs affects intestinal motility and has a strong carminative effect (dimethicone, simethicone).
Etiotropic therapy fights the causes of gas in the intestines:
The safest drug for increased gas formation is Espumisan, which has no contraindications and can be prescribed to elderly people, pregnant and lactating women, as well as patients with diabetes.
The most important factor in the fight against flatulence is diet. To eliminate discomfort, it is necessary to correct the diet and avoid fatty foods, which will help food to be absorbed faster and gases not to linger in the intestines. We will tell you in more detail about how to eat properly when gases form in the intestines.
How to eat properly during flatulence: diet if you have increased gases in the intestines
First of all, you need to find out which foods cause excess gas and then avoid these foods. In some patients, flour products and sweets can provoke flatulence, in others - fatty and meat dishes. You should be wary of foods containing large amounts of fiber. This:
- black bread,
- legumes,
- citrus,
- cabbage,
- fruits,
- berries,
- tomatoes,
Try an experiment and exclude one of the following foods from your diet:
Depending on the result, it will be possible to understand what exactly provokes the occurrence of an unpleasant phenomenon. Try not to eat vegetables and fruits raw. It is better to boil or stew vegetables, and use fruits to make compotes or purees.
Try to avoid drinking whole milk, ice cream and milkshakes for two weeks. If such a diet turns out to be effective, then the cause of flatulence lies in lactose intolerance contained in dairy products and it is best to avoid consuming them. If you do not have lactose intolerance, it will be useful to eat yoghurt, kefir, cottage cheese every day, and cook viscous porridge with milk and water.
You should avoid drinking carbonated drinks, kvass, and beer, which cause fermentation processes in the body. To eliminate dysphagia, doctors recommend eating slowly, chewing food thoroughly.
You should stop using chewing gum, as during the chewing process you swallow an excessive amount of air. Try to avoid products containing sorbitol (sugar-free chewing gum, diet foods, breakfast cereals), and avoid whole grain and brown bread.
To get rid of constipation and maintain normal bowel function, you need to eat foods that contain indigestible fiber, such as ground wheat bran. It is important to avoid drinking alcohol and try not to overeat by eating small meals several times a day.
Avoid eating fatty and fried meat products. Dietary meat needs to be boiled or stewed. It is worth trying to replace meat with lean fish, and strong tea or coffee with herbal infusions. It is best to adhere to the principles of separate nutrition and avoid the simultaneous intake of starch and protein foods, for example potatoes with meat.
Unfamiliar exotic dishes that are unusual for the stomach (Chinese, Asian cuisine) can pose a danger. If you have a problem like this, you shouldn’t experiment and it’s better to give preference to traditional national or European cuisine.
It is useful to arrange fasting days for the stomach. This will restore the functioning of the digestive system and help get rid of toxins. On a fasting day, you can boil some rice and eat it warm, in small portions without salt, sugar or oil. Or unload with kefir, if there is no intolerance to dairy products.
In this case, it is recommended not to eat anything during the day, but to drink only kefir (up to 2 liters).
To activate the intestines and improve its motility, doctors recommend taking daily walks, walking more and leading an active lifestyle.
Traditional medicine for strong gases in the intestines: what to do?
Traditional recipes give a good effect when gas accumulates in the intestines. Decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs help quickly get rid of an unpleasant illness.
Fennel. This medicinal plant has such an effective and gentle effect in eliminating gases that its infusion is given even to small children.
To eliminate constipation leading to gas formation, you can prepare a mixture of dried fruits and senna herb. To do this, 400g of dried apricots and pitted prunes are steamed with warm boiled water and left covered overnight. In the morning, the mixture is passed through a meat grinder, 200 grams of honey and 1 tablespoon of dry hay grass are added, and the mass is mixed well. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Take two teaspoons at night.
Enemas with chamomile decoction will help get rid of gases in the intestines. To prepare the decoction, pour one tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers into a glass of water and simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes. Allow the broth to cool, filter and dilute this amount of liquid with two tablespoons of boiled water. The enema is done daily before bed for 3-5 days.
Conclusion
So what conclusions can we draw? The phenomenon of accumulation of gases in the intestines is not in itself a disease. But if excess gas is a constant concern and is accompanied by a full range of unpleasant symptoms: heartburn, constipation or diarrhea, stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, you need to seek medical help and undergo a thorough examination to rule out serious diseases.
If, upon examination, suspicions of other diseases disappear, then flatulence can be easily eliminated by changing the diet, proper nutrition and taking medications prescribed by a doctor. Follow all medical recommendations and be healthy!
The delicate problem of excess gas accumulation in the intestines worries many people. It is manifested by symptoms of bloating, rumbling sounds, and cramping pain due to a feeling of distension in the intestinal loops. The combination of these symptoms is called flatulence. Flatulence is not a separate serious disease. It can occur as a one-time deterioration of the condition due to the consumption of stale food or an unusual combination of foods. But frequently recurring symptoms of flatulence over a long period of time are a consequence of disturbances in the functioning of the digestive system.
What is flatulence, why does a large accumulation of gases appear in the intestines?
When proteins, fats and carbohydrates are broken down in the intestines into nutrients for absorption through capillaries into the blood, a process of natural gas formation occurs. This is a normal physiological process in which the activity of bacteria located inside the intestine is accompanied by the release of gases (nitrogen, oxygen). With normal functional indicators of the gastrointestinal tract, the volume of gases does not exceed 600 ml during the day. They come off naturally, do not have a strong odor and do not cause discomfort to humans.
In the case when the volume of gases in the intestines exceeds 900 ml within one day, unpleasant phenomena in the abdominal area begin to increase in the form of distension, rumbling, persistent bloating appears, and gases pass poorly. If the excreted gases have an unpleasant, pungent odor, this is a consequence of disturbances in the intestinal microflora, in which bacteria dominate, emitting many specific gases (for example, hydrogen sulfide).
Factors that contribute to increased gas production:
1 insufficiency in the secretion of gastrointestinal enzymes;
2 excessive consumption of foods rich in fiber and carbohydrates;
3 disorders of intestinal motility;
4 abuse of carbonated drinks;
5 simultaneous consumption of foods in the wrong combination (fish and milk, meat and fruit);
6 psycho-emotional disorders and stress conditions, since the nervous system controls the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Some factors include the state of pregnancy, in which an increase in the volume of the uterus may be accompanied by compression of the intestinal loops, which complicates the natural passage of accumulated gases.
Symptoms and signs of flatulence, large accumulation of gases in the intestines
Where do gases come from in the intestines? The intestines react to the increased release of gases in it with symptoms that cause a lot of inconvenience to patients and disrupt the usual rhythm of their lives. Painful sensations in the form of cramping attacks have varying intensity, spread to the entire abdominal area, most often localized in the left and right hypochondrium. The pain is caused by the pressure of excess gases on the intestinal walls. Due to the swollen intestines, the diaphragm rises, squeezing other organs.
Symptoms of excess gas in the intestines:
1 feeling of fullness in the stomach;
2 bloating;
3 sounds of bubbling, “pouring” of food mass, rumbling;
4 hiccups, belching;
5 attacks of nausea due to digestion problems;
6 cramping pain localized in the upper and lower abdomen;
7 constipation, diarrhea;
8 release of gases accompanied by sound;
The state of flatulence is characterized by cyclical manifestations: when the gases pass, some relief is observed, but after a while the gases accumulate again, the stomach swells again, and attacks of pain are repeated.
Causes of flatulence, why do gases in the intestines torment you?
Why do gases form in the intestines? There are many reasons that lead to increased formation of gases in the intestines. The two main categories include:
1 one-time manifestations of flatulence in healthy people;
2 symptoms of flatulence due to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
The phenomena of flatulence can occur in completely healthy people against the background of an irrational diet, a single consumption of low-quality products, or swallowing air while eating. Other reasons include functional disorders in the digestive system, as a result of which the intestinal microflora or its motility (motor functions) suffers. This is often associated with a number of gastrointestinal diseases (gastritis, pancreatitis, colitis).
What causes excessive gas accumulation in the intestines? Let us note the main reasons:
1 aerophagia (swallowing air);
2 consumption of certain types of foods;
3 violations of the normal digestive process, resulting in the formation of remains of poorly digested food;
4 intestinal dysbiosis;
5 disorders of enzyme secretion;
6 disturbances of intestinal motility (difficulty in moving food mass);
7 deviations of digestive functions from the norm due to nervous tension.
Aerophagia is the entry of excess air into the digestive tract during eating. Sometimes air escapes through the esophagus and oral cavity to the outside, resulting in belching. Sometimes, along with food, it enters further into the intestines. This happens when a person eats quickly “on the go”, chewing food poorly, talks a lot while eating, or washes down food with soda. Swallowing air is not dangerous, and in the absence of functional disorders on the part of the gastrointestinal tract, air is eliminated from the body naturally. More often than others, increased gas formation is caused by the consumption of certain foods. These include carbohydrate-containing foods and foods high in starch and fiber. Carbohydrates promote fermentation processes, causing the formation of gases, so the consumption of sweets must be controlled.
What foods can lead to the formation of gases in the intestines and the development of flatulence?
List of products that contribute to increased gas formation:
1 fruits, sweets;
2 dairy products, especially in combination with baked goods;
3 cabbage (white cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli), legumes, potatoes;
4 carbonated drinks.
Existing disturbances in the digestion process or a lack of enzymes lead to the fact that part of the food remains undigested and is not broken down into the necessary components absorbed into the blood. These residues begin to decompose in the intestines, causing fermentation and gas accumulation. Intestinal dysbiosis is an imbalance of its microflora, when for one reason or another the number of beneficial bacteria decreases significantly. This activates fermentation and enhances the activity of flora, releasing carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide in large quantities. Because of this, the gases acquire a sharp, unpleasant odor. Disturbances in intestinal motility negatively affect the movement of feces and cause difficulties in removing them from the body. In this case, the decomposition process is aggravated, which causes additional gas formation.
The constant accumulation of gases is fraught with further intensification of symptoms and, in the absence of the necessary treatment, can be complicated by arrhythmia and increased heart rate. Swollen loops of intestine push against the diaphragm and can cause compression of the vagus nerve. Undigested food remains that remain in the intestines for a long time can cause a state of intoxication due to decay products. And this can lead to a deterioration in the general condition of the whole body in the form of fatigue, lack of appetite, and depressive mood. Finding out the causes of flatulence helps to establish the right treatment tactics and eliminate the problem of intestinal gases.
How to determine the cause of gas accumulation, diagnosis of flatulence
When flatulence occurs occasionally, you need to analyze your diet. With some effort, it is possible to identify a certain relationship between the consumption of certain foods and the appearance of symptoms of flatulence. To eliminate the problem, it is enough to exclude these products and increased gas formation in the intestines can be avoided. To establish the causes of persistent manifestations of flatulence, it is necessary to undergo a series of examinations, including diagnosing possible abnormalities in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. A doctor’s consultation begins with a thorough examination of the patient and collection of his complaints. Palpation of the abdomen during flatulence usually reveals spasmodic areas of the intestine, upon which the patient experiences pain when pressed. Tension of the abdominal muscles is not observed during flatulence; it is more characteristic of the presence of an inflammatory process.
To assess the severity of the process and exclude serious diseases, the patient is prescribed the necessary examinations from the following complex:
1 examination of the abdominal organs using an ultrasound machine;
2 x-ray examination;
3 endoscopic examinations of the gastrointestinal tract (fibrogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy);
4 laboratory tests (blood test, stool test);
5 carrying out various types of tests (lactose tolerance test, hydrogen breath test, test to determine stool acidity).
Ultrasound, X-ray diagnostics and endoscopy can identify organic pathological changes in the gastrointestinal tract (ulcers, cysts, tumors). Laboratory methods help detect functional disorders. A blood test makes it possible to determine the presence of inflammatory processes. A coprogram, which combines physical and chemical analysis of stool, can provide a greater information picture in the study of increased gas formation. When examining stool under a microscope, the following is revealed:
1 change in color, consistency;
2 absence or presence of a specific odor;
3 remains of dietary fiber and undigested foods;
4 presence of hidden blood, mucus, pus;
5 presence of helminth eggs;
6 the presence of bilirubin, neutral fat, starch.
The coprogram, in combination with other studies, helps an experienced specialist differentiate a number of diseases. For example, in chronic pancreatitis, stool may have a grease-like consistency; in peptic ulcers, stool takes on the appearance of small lumps (“sheep” feces) due to the spastic state of the organs; and in colitis, mucus and pus are found. Helminthic infestations are dangerous due to the waste products of helminths, which cause intestinal dysfunction and intoxication of the body. Biochemical blood tests can reveal abnormalities in liver function. A decrease in the level of bile production disrupts the digestion process, food is not completely digested, and gases are formed.
Tests are indirect elements of diagnosis. For example, a lactose tolerance test is carried out to determine lactose deficiency, as a result of which drinking milk is fraught with excessive gas formation. After conducting a comprehensive examination, the doctor determines treatment tactics to eliminate the problem of increased gas formation.
What to do, how to get rid of gases in the intestines, treatment of flatulence?
The first step to eliminating increased gas formation is to review your diet. This includes eliminating certain foods and monitoring problematic combinations in dishes.
You should consume with caution:
1 all types of sweets;
2 legumes;
3 fruits (best eaten in a separate meal);
It is recommended to give preference to stewing and boiling meat and vegetables. It is better to replace tea and coffee with herbal infusions that help improve digestion. You should avoid chewing gum (contains sorbitol).
How to get rid of gas accumulation in the intestines? Therapeutic therapy is carried out taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and includes:
1 removal of the main symptoms;
2 treatment of diseases that cause flatulence;
3 warning of gas formation.
What to do if gases form in the intestines. As a means of reducing pain, drugs that relieve intestinal spasms (Drotaverine or No-shpa) are prescribed. Enzyme deficiency is compensated for by taking Pancreatin, Mezim and other enzyme preparations. Dysbacteriosis is treated with the help of beneficial bacteria that populate the intestines. These include a number of probiotics: Linex, Acipol, Bifiform. For problems with constipation and weakness of motor skills, the following are prescribed: Senadexin, Duphalac, Glycelax, suppositories with a laxative effect. To reduce the manifestations of intoxication of the body, the use of sorbent drugs is indicated: activated carbon, Enterosgel, Atoxil. However, they cannot be used for a long time, since sorbents remove many useful substances from the body. In the absence of serious diseases, manifestations of increased gas formation can be dealt with using traditional methods. Decoctions of dill (fennel) seeds, anise, caraway seeds, as well as mint and chamomile tea are widely used. The delicate problem of gas accumulation in the intestines is completely solvable with a responsible and attentive attitude towards your body.
