In cases of extreme flatulence, a person should consult a doctor if he or she has other symptoms apart from gas, such as:
- abdominal pain
- rectal pain
- gastric acidity or reflux
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- prolonged constipation
- unexplained weight loss
- bloody stools
The doctor will perform a physical examination with special attention to the abdomen and will ask you questions about your symptoms, such as:
How is your diet?
Have you changed your diet recently?
What are the foods you eat commonly?
What food has been eaten recently?
Have you increased the fiber in the diet?
How quickly do you eat, chew and swallow?
Would you say that your gas is mild or extreme?
Does the flatulence seem to be related to the consumption of dairy products or other specific foods?
What seems to ameliorate the problem?
What medications do you take?
Do you have other symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, early satiety (premature fullness after meals), abdoninal distention or weight loss?
The diagnostic tests that can be made are:
Abdominal CT
Abdominal ultrasound
Barium enema
Esophogeal x-ray
Blood work
Sigmoidoscopy
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD)
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Disclaimer: The information and advice given on this website does not constitute medical advice. If you are feeling unwell, please contact your doctor or another health care professional.