Sometimes belching and bloating may seem like a nuisance. Other times, it can affect one’s quality of life when the occurrence is repetitive.
Common Factors That Affect Belching and Bloating:
- The Types of Foods Eaten – some legumes are infamous for causing gas (think beans). Also foods that contain lactose may cause excessive gas in those who suffer from lactose intolerance.
- Air Swallowing – activities like chewing gum or drinking from a straw can cause excessive air in the stomach.
- Medicines – the best way to find if medicines cause gas, is to read the label or ask a doctor.
- Illness – intestinal gas may be the result of an underlying abdominal disease. More common types include Celiac disease, GERD or hernia. In some instances patients will suffer from gastroparesis ( delayed excretion) or blocks in the intestinal tract, which would have to be corrected surgically.
If belching and bloating are accompanied by additional symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, consult a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. An M.D. can perform common, non invasive procedures like a colonoscopy or endoscopy to determine if there are any underlying illnesses for constant bloating, burping and/or gas.We service customers from Camarillo for gastroenterology at 2220 Lynn Rd #202 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360. Consultations can be arranged by scheduling an appointment. Call us at 805-371-8400.