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Flatulence
Dealing with uncomfortable gas? Flatulence affects everyone but painful or embarrassing symptoms shouldn't interrupt life. At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers personalized evaluations, advanced testing, and tailored treatment plans to relieve bloating, odor, and discomfort effectively.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is Flatulence?
Passing gas from your digestive system
A normal byproduct of digestion; most people pass gas 10-20 times a day
Becomes problematic if it causes pain, excessive odor or interferes with daily life
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Dietary triggers: beans, broccoli, dairy products and carbonated beverages
Swallowed air: eating too quickly, chewing gum or smoking
Food intolerances: lactose or fructose malabsorption
Underlying gut disorders: IBS, SIBO or celiac disease
Hormonal changes: pregnancy can slow digestion and increase gas
Signs and Symptoms
Frequent passing of gas
Bloating or tightness in the abdomen
Foul-smelling gas (often sulfur-like)
Abdominal pain or pressure that may radiate to the back or chest
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Flatulence?
Dr. Nguyen uses a comprehensive, step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms, dietary habits, stress levels and risk factors, then performs an abdominal exam to check for bloating, tenderness or unusual sounds.
Breath Tests
We perform breath tests to detect small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or carbohydrate intolerances (lactose, fructose).
Blood Tests
Blood work screens for celiac disease antibodies, inflammatory markers and other metabolic issues that can contribute to gas and epigastric discomfort.
Imaging and Endoscopy
Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to rule out structural abnormalities.
Upper endoscopy to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach and duodenum—and obtain biopsies if needed.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for flatulence relief.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Cutting back on gas-causing foods (beans, broccoli, dairy, fizzy drinks)
Eating smaller meals more frequently
Eating slowly to reduce swallowed air
Keeping a food diary to pinpoint individual triggers
2. Medications
Simethicone to break up gas bubbles
Lactase supplements for lactose intolerance
Probiotics to support healthy gut flora
Antibiotics for confirmed SIBO cases
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopy for direct visualization of the digestive tract
Balloon procedures to relieve or bypass blockages when needed
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods make flatulence worse?
Foods like beans, broccoli, onions, and fizzy drinks often increase gas.
Can stress cause gas?
Yes. Stress can slow digestion and lead to more gas and bloating.
How is gas linked to pregnancy?
In early pregnancy, hormone changes slow digestion and lead to more gas.
When should I see a doctor?
See Dr. Nguyen if you have severe pain, unexplained weight loss, or blood in your stool.
Do over-the-counter treatments work?
Products like simethicone or lactase can help, but it's best to ask Dr. Nguyen for personalized advice.
Why does my gas smell like sulfur?
Certain foods and gut bacteria produce sulfur compounds, which can cause a rotten-egg smell.
Can probiotics help?
Yes. Probiotics can support healthy gut bacteria and may reduce gas over time.
