Flatulence Symptoms, Causes - Gas (Flatulence)

Flatulence or Gas Symptoms

Flatulence is the emission of a mixture of gases called 'flatus' present in the intestine. This gas is produced by symbiotic bacteria and yeasts found in the gastrointestinal tract. Flatus is usually released under pressure through the anus which creates sound and is often accompanied by a foul odor. Flatulence, many a times causes discomfort and pain due to bloating, not to mention social embarrassment.

Major cause of flatulence is swallowed air:

Swallowed air, though this is a major cause of flatulence, it could still be a reason. Some people swallow air as a matter of habit, this condition is referred to as Aerophagia. While the oxygen present in the air thus inhaled is absorbed by the body, the nitrogen is expelled in flatus as it is poorly absorbed by the mucous lining.

Presence of excessive amounts of bacteria in the intestines

Consumption of large amounts of fibrous foods

Consumption of products that contain malt extracts

Digestive disorders that affect the GI tract such as gastroenteritis.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irregular bowel movements or constipation.

Food or water that may be prepared under unhygienic conditions.

A high-fat diet generates a huge amount of carbon dioxide, some of which is released as flatulence or gas.

Odorous flatulence is caused due to the metabolic breakdown of sulfur-containing proteins and amino acids in the intestines.

Persistent bloating and flatulence that is present consistently over a period may be an indication of a serious medical condition such as colorectal cancer. This may need deeper investigation and treatment.

Fat malabsorption could be another cause for flatulence. This problem produces loose and light-colored stools accompanied by gas.