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Flatulence
Flatulence, a normal byproduct of digestion, can cause discomfort when excessive. Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston offers personalized evaluations, dietary guidance, and advanced testing to identify causes and provide relief. Learn more from the Mayo Clinic for additional insights.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Dietary choices high in fermentable carbs (beans, lentils, broccoli, onions)
Dairy products in lactose-intolerant individuals
High-fiber or high-fat meals that slow gastric emptying
Swallowed air from eating quickly, chewing gum or drinking through a straw
Carbonated beverages and sugar substitutes (sorbitol, xylitol)
Gut conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Imbalance of gut microbiota-low levels of beneficial bacteria
Signs and Symptoms
Frequent belching or burping
Bloating or a sense of fullness in the abdomen
Loud, gurgling or malodorous intestinal gas
Cramping, sharp stomach pains or discomfort
Lower back pain related to trapped gas
Fluctuating symptoms linked to meals or specific foods
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Flatulence?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He discusses your gas frequency, bloating, epigastric discomfort, diet, and any related factors such as stress or medications.
Physical Examination
He palpates the abdomen to locate tenderness, assesses distension, and listens for bowel sounds to identify abnormal gas patterns.
Breath Testing
Hydrogen/methane breath test to detect lactose intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Fructose intolerance testing when diet review suggests FODMAP sensitivity.
Laboratory Studies
Stool analysis may be ordered to rule out infections, inflammation, or malabsorption if diarrhea or weight loss accompany your symptoms.
Imaging and Endoscopy (if indicated)
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate for gallstones, liver disease, or structural issues that can mimic gas pain.
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers, celiac disease, or Helicobacter pylori.
Advanced Testing
If initial tests are inconclusive, he may recommend capsule endoscopy or direct small-bowel aspiration to pinpoint bacterial overgrowth or mucosal abnormalities.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for flatulence (gas) issues.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Adopt a low-FODMAP diet to limit fermentable carbohydrates
Avoid carbonated beverages, chewing gum, and straws to reduce swallowed air
Eat slowly and chew thoroughly to minimize excess gas production
2. Medications
Simethicone to break up gas bubbles and relieve discomfort
Lactase enzyme supplements for lactose intolerance
Alpha-galactosidase (e.g., Beano) to aid digestion of beans and cruciferous vegetables
3. Diagnostics and Procedures
Hydrogen breath tests to diagnose lactose intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Endoscopy or colonoscopy to evaluate unexplained symptoms or rule out structural issues
Abdominal ultrasound or X-ray if obstruction or other complications are suspected
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other names are there for flatulence?
Gas, wind, flatus, or fart-all refer to the same digestive process of passing intestinal gas.
How often is gas normal?
Most people pass gas 10-20 times a day. Consistently higher amounts may signal an underlying gut issue.
When should I worry about chest pain with gas?
If gas is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or vomiting, seek medical attention right away.
Can probiotics help with gas?
Yes. Probiotics-especially Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains-can rebalance gut flora and reduce gas symptoms.
Can gas cause back pain?
Yes. Trapped gas can press on nerves and muscles, leading to discomfort or pain in your lower back or abdomen.
Are there home remedies for flatulence?
Yes. Try peppermint oil capsules, sipping ginger tea, taking a warm bath, or applying a heating pad to ease gas pain.
Is flatulence ever serious?
Usually flatulence is harmless. However, if you experience unexplained weight loss, bloody stools, or persistent pain, consult a doctor.
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