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Flatulence

Persistent gas can lead to discomfort and embarrassment, yet relief is within reach. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers personalized testing-from breath tests to endoscopy-and tailored treatment plans, including diet modifications, medications and procedures to restore digestive balance.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

What Is Flatulence?

  • Passing gas as a normal part of digestion
  • Results from swallowed air or bacterial breakdown of food
  • Most people pass gas a few times each day
  • Becomes a concern when it causes pain, bloating, or social embarrassment

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • High-fiber or sulfur-rich foods (beans, cabbage, broccoli, onions, dairy)
  • Eating too quickly or chewing gum (increased air swallowing)
  • Digestive conditions (IBS, lactose intolerance, SIBO)
  • Hormonal changes (early pregnancy slows digestion)
  • Certain medications or fiber supplements
  • Lifestyle factors: high stress, poor hydration, eating on the go

Signs and Symptoms

  • Bloating or tightness in the abdomen
  • Frequent burping or belching
  • Excessive or foul-smelling gas
  • Abdominal cramps or mild pain
  • Chest or back discomfort from trapped gas

Expert Treatment for Flatulence by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Symptom Review

He discusses your diet, timing of gas episodes, epigastric discomfort, and any red-flag symptoms (weight loss, bleeding).

Physical Examination

A thorough abdominal exam checks for tenderness, bloating, distension, and signs of obstruction or hernia.

Food and Symptom Journal

Tracking meals, gas patterns, and pain helps pinpoint trigger foods and symptom correlations.

Breath Tests

  • Hydrogen breath test for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
  • Lactose breath test to diagnose lactose intolerance.
  • Fructose or glucose breath tests, if dietary sugars are suspected.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate gallbladder, liver, and assess for masses.
  • CT scan when detailed visualization of the bowel or pancreas is needed.

Endoscopic Evaluation

Upper endoscopy (EGD) examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis, or structural issues.

Motility and Advanced Testing (if needed)

Gastric emptying studies or motility tests assess slow transit; rarely, biopsies confirm inflammation or infection.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for flatulence relief.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly
  • Avoid carbonated drinks, beans, and greasy meals
  • Drink plenty of water to help fiber move smoothly
  • Opt for smaller, more frequent meals
  • Work with our dietitian for a custom plan-especially during pregnancy

2. Medications

  • Simethicone to break up gas bubbles
  • Lactase pills for dairy intolerance
  • Probiotics to rebalance gut bacteria
  • Activated charcoal tablets or digestive enzymes as needed

3. Advanced Care and Procedures

  • Targeted antibiotics for SIBO, guided by breath testing
  • Endoscopy for evaluation of ulcers or blockages
  • Gastrointestinal motility studies for slow-moving intestines
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does flatulence smell bad?

Sulfur-rich foods and slow digestion can make gas smell worse.

When should I see a doctor?

If gas is painful, constant, or linked to weight loss, blood, or fever.

Can flatulence cause chest pain?

Yes. Gas in the upper gut can press on the chest and mimic heartburn.

Is gas normal in pregnancy?

Yes. Hormones slow digestion, which can lead to bloating and gas.

How can I reduce gas at home?

Eat slowly, avoid soda, skip gassy foods, and try simethicone.

What tests check for gas problems?

Breath tests, imaging, or endoscopy if needed.

Can back pain and gas be connected?

Yes. Gas in the lower gut can push on nerves and cause back pain.

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