Gas Pains
Gas Pains Causes
A person may unknowingly swallow air when he is nervous, eats too fast, chews gum or drinks through a straw. Some of that air finds its way into the lower digestive tract. But most lower intestinal gas is produced when bacteria in the colon ferment carbohydrates that aren't digested in the small intestine.
Gas Pains Definition
These are air bubbles that can get trapped in the stomach and/or passed on to the intestine.
Gas Pains Diagnosis
During the exam, the doctor may check to see if the abdomen is distended and listen for a hollow sound when the abdomen is tapped. A hollow sound often indicates the presence of excess gas.
Gas Pains Symptoms and Signs
Some symptoms include the voluntary or involuntary passing of gas, either as belching or as flatus. There can also be sharp, jabbing pains or cramps in the abdomen. These pains may occur anywhere in the abdomen and can change locations quickly. The patient may also have a "knotted" feeling in the stomach. Another symptom is abdominal bloating (distension).
Gas Pains Treatment
To avoid gas pains, one can try cutting back on fried, fatty, and high-fiber foods. Also, eating smaller meals, chewing food more carefully, avoiding chewing gum and drinking through a straw can help avoid gas pains.