Gas and indigestion

Overview

Gas comes from swallowed air and from gut bacteria breaking down food. Passing gas 10 to 20 times a day is normal.

Indigestion is discomfort or burning in the upper belly, often with fullness or nausea.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Bloating or gas
• Burping
• Feeling too full after eating

Less common

• Upper belly burning
• Nausea

When to get medical care

Causes

Swallowed air, gas-making foods, overeating, fatty or spicy foods, stress, and sometimes ulcers or reflux.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Eating fast
• Fizzy drinks
• Smoking

Possible complications

• Acid reflux (GERD)
• Stomach ulcer

Diagnosis

Most people don't need tests.

Questions you may be asked

• Foods that trigger it
• Weight loss, vomiting, or black stools

The exam

A belly exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• H. pylori test: For a stomach infection.
• Endoscopy: If you're over 60 or have warning signs.

Treatment

Changing eating habits helps most people.

Self-care

• Eat slowly and have smaller meals
• Cut back on fizzy drinks, beans, onions, and fatty foods
• Don't chew gum or drink through straws
• Walk after meals

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Eat slowly
• Limit trigger foods

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually harmless and improves with changes.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• Food diary

Questions to ask

• Do I need an H. pylori test?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Gas and indigestion