symptoms of digestive disorders
digestive disorders
Gas
Doctors reassure people who have chronic bloating or flatus that their condition is not caused by another disorder and that these gas-related symptoms are not harmful to their health. Bloating and belching are difficult to relieve because they are usually caused by unconscious air swallowing or an increased sensitivity to normal amounts of gas. If belching is the main problem, reducing the amount of air being swallowed can help, which is difficult because people usually are not aware of swallowing air. Avoiding chewing gum and eating more slowly in a relaxed atmosphere may help. Avoiding carbonated beverages helps some people. Doctors may also recommend that people try to minimize air swallowing by practicing open-mouth breathing from the diaphragm and fully control any associated upper digestive tract diseases (such as Peptic Ulcer Disease ). People who pass flatus excessively should avoid foods that are likely to cause flatus. Typically, people should eliminate one food or group of foods at a time. Thus, people can start by avoiding any known trigger foods and eliminating foods containing FODMAPs and/or they can eliminate foods such as beans and cabbage, then milk and dairy products,then fresh fruits, and then certain vegetables and other foods.Sorbitoland fructose should be consumed only in limited amounts. Roughage (such as bran andpsylliumseeds) may be added to the diet to try to increase movement through the large intestine. However, additional roughage may make symptoms worse for some people. Aromatic oils, such as oil of peppermint in a preparation that releases the oil slowly, may also help relieve gas pain. Drugs do not provide much relief. Some doctors try anticholinergic drugs (such asbethanechol) andsimethicone, which is present in some antacids and is also available by itself. However, there is little scientific evidence that these are of benefit. Activated charcoal tablets can sometimes help reduce flatus and its unpleasant odor. However, charcoal stains the mouth and clothing. Charcoal-lined undergarments are available. Probiotics, which are bacteria found naturally in the body that promote the growth of good bacteria, may reduce bloating and flatulence by promoting growth of normal intestinal bacteria in some people. Some people with Treatment (dyspepsia) and upper abdominal fullness after a meal may be helped by antacids, a low dose of antidepressants (such as 