Gas and acid reflux

Gas and acid reflux

Talking about gas may be politically incorrect, but in extreme cases of gas and acid reflux, you should see your doctor to rule out a more serious condition like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What is bloating (gas)?

Let's talk a little about gas and acid reflux, or to be more politically correct, bloating and acid reflux. First of all, if you have a human body, you are blessed with a digestive tract and have gas (bloating). You were born with it and you will die with it. It may be politically wrong to talk about it, and it's certainly the butt of a lot of jokes. Everyone has it and everyone does it, even kings and queens.

On average, depending on our diet, we pass gas fifteen to twenty times a day, sometimes while we sleep. The gas is a combination of oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitrogen and is usually odorless. If it isn't, it smells like rotten eggs.

As embarrassing as it is, it's natural. The large intestine produces hydrogen sulfide (the smell of rotten eggs) when bacteria in the large intestine break down carbohydrates that leak from the small intestine. The smell is the result of the fermentation of carbohydrates. A small amount of methane, hydrogen and another sulfide gas is also produced.

Surprisingly, the unmistakably malodorous odor is a very small amount, about one percent of the total gas our digestive system produces. If it becomes excessive, e.g. If symptoms occur, such as gas and acid reflux, and are associated with constipation, vomiting or weight loss, you should consult your doctor.

The sound that the gas produces depends on the force with which it is expelled. The pressure with which the gas is expelled causes the anal sphincter to vibrate, creating that distinctive sound. Because it is not a socially acceptable bodily function, you may hold it, walk away from the scene, or suffer the consequences.

Gas and acid reflux

I realize this all seems a bit strange, but that's just our conditioning. Bloating is a symptom of acid reflux and GERD. Excessive flatulence can be a cause for concern and you should consult your doctor.

Gas and acid reflux go hand in hand. Almost all foods contribute to gas formation in the intestines. Just chewing your food, drinking soda water, or smoking can create gas in the digestive tract. Wearing tight clothing hinders the digestion of food and contributes to the reflux of gas and acid.

If the gas is not released through burping or flatulence, bloating may occur. Bloating can be more than uncomfortable and can cause mild or severe pain.

The Mayo Clinic suggests eating fewer fatty foods, identifying the foods that cause the gas, limiting or eliminating them from your diet, eating slowly, and perhaps taking a walk after eating.

If you experience bloody stools, diarrhea or constipation, weight loss, nausea, or vomiting with excessive gas, seek medical attention. It could well be symptoms of severe acid reflux or GERD.

As the Mayo Clinic notes, "gut symptoms can be embarrassing—but don't let embarrassment stop you from seeking help."

These symptoms can be treated holistically without over-the-counter medications or expensive prescriptions. If you're a victim of excessive bloating, remember that your body has the ability to heal itself, and you have a lot to say about how this is accomplished.

Sometimes small changes in our daily routines and habits are needed to relieve us of annoying and sometimes painful symptoms.

Inspired by C. A. Perez