Most of us experience flatulence (commonly known as passing gas) daily. While it’s usually harmless and linked to diet or digestion, excessive or unusually smelly gas can sometimes raise concerns.
Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo and his team at Hudson River Gastroenterology, serving Lower Manhattan and the Financial District of NYC, have answers.
Here’s their guidance on the common reasons for flatulence, the health conditions it may signal, and when it’s time to seek medical advice.
Flatulence occurs when gas builds up in the digestive tract and is released through the rectum. The gas comes from two main sources: swallowed air and the breakdown of food by gut bacteria.
In most cases, flatulence is a normal part of digestion, and certain foods are well-known triggers:
Eating too quickly, drinking with a straw, or chewing gum can also increase the amount of air you swallow, which can lead to more gas.
While occasional gas is normal, persistent or severe flatulence can sometimes point to an underlying health issue.
Conditions that may be associated with excessive gas include:
Food intolerances like gluten sensitivity are common causes of chronic gas. When the body can’t properly digest certain foods, bacteria in the gut ferment them, producing excess gas, bloating, and discomfort.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome often includes gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. Flatulence in IBS is typically accompanied by discomfort rather than occurring alone.
SIBO occurs when too many bacteria grow in the small intestine. This can interfere with digestion, leading to excessive gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Certain bacterial or parasitic infections can disrupt normal digestion, leading to foul-smelling gas, cramps, and loose stools. These symptoms often appear suddenly and may follow travel or food poisoning.
Flatulence alone is rarely serious, but Dr. Chattoo recommends you pay attention if it occurs alongside other symptoms.
Red flags include unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, blood in the stool, chronic diarrhea, or fatigue. These signs may suggest a more serious digestive condition that requires medical evaluation sooner rather than later.
We also encourage you to schedule a visit if you’re experiencing changes in your “normal routine,” such as increased gas frequency or worsening odor. Remember that excess gas is frequently linked to very treatable conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, SIBO, or food intolerances.
If flatulence is frequent, painful, or interfering with your quality of life, Dr. Chattoo can help determine whether your symptoms are diet-related or linked to an underlying condition.
Depending on your symptoms, he may recommend diagnostic testing and develop a treatment strategy based on those results. He may also suggest keeping a food diary to help identify triggers. You can start this now to aid in the initial evaluation.
In the meantime, eating slowly, avoiding carbonated drinks, and reducing problem foods may significantly improve symptoms.
Flatulence is usually normal, but persistent or severe gas can sometimes signal an underlying health condition. Paying attention to your body and associated symptoms is key to maintaining good digestive health.
We can help. Schedule a visit with Dr. Prem Chattoo today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.
