What should you know about excessive flatulence and bloating?

Gas forms when gut bacteria break down some carbohydrates, while bloating is the feeling of pressure or visible abdominal fullness. Eating quickly, chewing gum, fizzy drinks and constipation can increase symptoms. Food Intolerance, Lactose Intolerance and Irritable Bowel Syndrome can also present with bloating and excess wind. Coeliac Disease may affect digestion, and Giardiasis can cause digestive symptoms after contaminated food or water. These symptoms do not identify one condition by themselves.

Keep a short diary of meals, bowel movements, bloating and flatulence so patterns are easier to discuss. Eat slowly, take smaller portions, drink water and walk gently after meals. Reduce fizzy drinks and avoid repeatedly removing large food groups without advice. Treat constipation with guidance from a clinician or pharmacist. Nutrition Counselling can help you test practical dietary changes while keeping meals balanced.

Arrange a medical assessment if symptoms persist, keep returning, disturb sleep or affect eating and daily activities. Seek urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen rigid abdomen, blood or black stool, fever, fainting, or inability to pass stool or gas. Unplanned weight loss or ongoing diarrhoea also deserves prompt review.

Ask whether your symptom pattern suggests constipation, an intolerance or another digestive problem; whether any tests are appropriate; and which dietary change is safest to try first. Bring your symptom diary and a list of medicines, supplements and recent travel.