Flatulence (also called as farting, or passing wind), is the passing of gas out of the back passage (rectum/anus) through the digestive system.
Passing wind is a normal process for everyone, when odourless and limited between 5-15 times a day. However, frequent and foul smelling flatulence can be socially embarrassing, especially so in a crowded elevator or at an important meeting.
Symptoms of excessive flatulence include:
The gas is produced in our digestive system (stomach and the intestines) by different means, such as:
Swallowed air: Along with swallowing food and drinks or saliva. Excessive air is swallowed by:
Gases are produced in the digestive tract as a side product of digestion and fermentation of food and are pushed along the bowel.
Food and drink:
Intake of foods containing unabsorbable carbohydrates, such as high-fibre diets, carbonated drinks, artificial sweetners, some vegetables (beans, cabbage, onions and broccoli), fruits (apple, apricot and pear) and dry fruits like raisins and fructose-containing fruit juices may cause flatulence.
Health conditions:
Certain conditions of digestive system can also cause excessive flatulence, such as:
Medications:
Flatulence can be a side effect of some medications such as antifungal medicines, laxatives, pain medications such as ibuprofen and cholesterol lowering drugs like statins.
Since normal flatulence varies from person to person. A person himself can observe any abnormal flatulence. In case, flatulence is excessive and particularly troublesome (foul-smelling), one should seek medical consult from a doctor.
In addition to flatulence, some additional symptoms should also prompt reaching out to a doctor:
Excessive flatulence can usually be treated by making changes to diet and lifestyle.
Diet changes
Lifestyle changes
Medications
Your doctor will suggest you the best medication, if required, to treat excessive flatulence. While many over-the-counter products are available to control excessive flatulence, always consult a doctor before taking any such medications.
Dietary supplements
Some supplements may help improve the digestion of food and prevent flatulence. Probiotics encourage the growth of friendly bacteria in the digestive system, which help in digestion and reduce symptoms of flatulence.
Deodorising products
Some wearable products (carbon fibre underwears) to deodorise gas may also be considered. While these appear to be effective, they may not be easily available and are expensive.
To know more about flatulence and its treatment, you can request for a call back and our experts will call you and answer all your queries.
Disclaimer: The content of this publication has been developed by a third party content provider who is clinicians and/or medical writers and/or experts. The information contained herein is for educational purpose only and we request you to please consult a Registered Medical Practitioner or Doctor before deciding the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
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