What causes frequent flatulence?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, flatulence refers to the passage of gas through the anus. Frequent flatulence may be caused by excessive intake of high-fiber foods, swallowing air, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, or other reasons. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, one should maintain healthy eating habits, avoid consuming large amounts of high-fiber foods at once, and increase fluid intake.
Generally speaking, flatulence refers to the passage of gas through the anus. Frequent flatulence may be caused by excessive intake of high-fiber foods, swallowing air, indigestion, lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other reasons. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Excessive intake of high-fiber diet
High-fiber foods are difficult to be completely digested in the small intestine. When they enter the large intestine, they are fermented by intestinal bacteria, producing gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen, which leads to increased flatulence. Drinking more water can help with the digestion and elimination of fiber.
2. Swallowing air
Eating too quickly or talking while eating may cause a person to unconsciously swallow large amounts of air. Most of the swallowed air is nitrogen, which is not absorbed by the body and is eventually expelled from the intestines, manifesting as flatulence. Eating slowly, avoiding talking during meals, and reducing consumption of carbonated beverages can help minimize air swallowing.
3. Indigestion
Overeating, irregular eating habits, and other poor dietary behaviors can easily lead to indigestion, which may impair digestive function and result in increased flatulence, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as bloating. Patients may take medications such as Jianwei Xiaoshi Tablets, Qizhi Weitong Granules, or Multienzyme Tablets under the guidance of a physician.
4. Lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance may be genetically related. A deficiency of lactase prevents the breakdown of lactose in dairy products, allowing it to be fermented by gut bacteria, which produces gas and causes flatulence, possibly accompanied by diarrhea and other symptoms. Under medical advice, patients may use medications such as Montmorillonite Powder, Compound Acidophilus Bacillus Tablets, or Bifidobacterium Quadruple Live Bacteria Tablets for treatment.
5. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
IBS may be triggered by long-term antibiotic use, gastrointestinal infections, and other factors. Abnormal intestinal flora can lead to increased gas production, resulting in frequent flatulence, possibly accompanied by abdominal pain, constipation, and other symptoms. Patients should follow medical instructions to use medications such as Bifidobacterium Triple Live Bacteria Powder, Clostridium Butyricum and Bacillus Combined Live Bacteria Granules, or Hyoscine Butylbromide Capsules for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to maintain healthy eating habits, avoid consuming excessive amounts of high-fiber foods at one time, and increase fluid intake to aid fiber digestion.
