What Is Trapped Wind? Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention Tips

Trapped wind or gas can sometimes be embarrassing. While occasional bloating and flatulence are normal, trapped wind can be uncomfortable and occasionally may a sign of a health condition. Knowing what causes it, the symptoms to watch out for, and how to relieve it can help you handle this potentially annoying condition.

Sign of Trapped Wind

The signs that may indicated that you have trapped wind vary and may include:

• Abdominal bloating
  A feeling of fullness or swelling in the stomach area.
• Excessive flatulence
  Releasing gas more frequently than usual.
• Stomach cramps
  Intermittent or persistent abdominal discomfort.
• Burping
  Frequent release of gas through the mouth.
• Rumbling gut
  Rumbling noises coming from your tummy or gut area.

Symptoms can range from one person to another and may be caused by several factors ranging from lifestyle, digestion to activity. Seek advice from a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist.

Causes of Trapped Wind

Understanding the root cause of trapped wind may help you find an appropriate treatment. 

Common causes may include:

1. Dietary Habits

• Consuming gas-producing foods like brussels sprouts or broccoli, or the gas consumed in carbonated drinks.
• Eating too quickly, which can cause air swallowing
• High intake of artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol and mannitol.

2. Food Intolerances

• Lactose intolerance
  Difficulty digesting lactose, present in dairy products.
• Gluten sensitivity (non-coeliac)
  Symptoms that may be like coeliac disease, that occur when eating gluten. Gluten sensitivity is not the same as coeliac disease.

3. Digestive Disorders

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  IBS is a common condition affecting gut function, often linked to bloating and excessive gas.
• Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
  SIBO occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria (germs) in the small intestine. It can cause symptoms like bloating and gas. It can occur in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), other bowel disease or diabetes.
• Constipation
  Constipation may lead to excessive or smelly gas.

4. Stress and Anxiety:

• Emotional stress can affect digestion, and may lead to bloating. Some people swallow air without noticing, when they are tense.

5. Medications:

• Certain antifungal medicines, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), statins, laxatives, and antacids containing magnesium trisilicate may contribute to wind or bloating. Do not stop taking your medicine, before consulting a healthcare professional.

Treatment for Trapped Wind

Management depends on the underlying cause. 

Here are some common approaches:

1. Dietary Changes

• Avoid gas-producing foods
  Try to limit your intake of foods such as cabbage, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, starchy foods like potatoes or noodles, or foods high in soluble fibre such as fruit, peas and beans.
• Reduce artificial sweeteners
  Cut back on products containing sorbitol such as chewing gum or sugar free sweets.
• Identify triggers
  Keeping a food diary can help pinpoint foods that exacerbate symptoms.
• Try a low FODMAP diet
  This specialised diet may help reduce symptoms in those with IBS or other digestive sensitivities. Always consult a dietitian or healthcare provider before starting.

2. Over-the-Counter Remedies

If diet and lifestyle changes do not help reduce bloating, over-the-counter remedies may be considered to help provide relief:

• Simethicone-based products
  These can help break down gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, making it easier to pass wind.
• Activated charcoal
  This may help reduce bloating by absorbing excess gas. Speak to a pharmacist before taking products that contain charcoal.
• FyboCalm
  FyboCalm Wind & Bloating Relief Capsules can help alleviate symptoms of abdominal bloating, distension, and gas.

3. Lifestyle Changes

• Eat slowly
  Taking your time during meals and chewing your food thoroughly may help to reduce gas.
• Stay active
  Regular exercise may improve digestion and gas-related symptoms as the upright position may help gas move around your body more freely.
• Manage stress
  Some people swallow air when they are stressed or tense. Stress can also affect your digestive system, leading to symptoms of digestive disorders, including bloating and gas. Incorporating stress management techniques into your daily routine, could help both your mental well-being and digestive health.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

While trapped wind is usually harmless, some symptoms warrant medical attention, including:

• Persistent stomach pain or bloating
• Significant unintentional weight loss
• Self-help and over-the-counter medicines have not helped and passing gas is interfering with daily activities
• Persistent constipation or diarrhoea
• you have lost weight without trying
• blood in your stools for 3 weeks or longer

If you experience any of these, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Persistent symptoms may require diagnostic tests, such as stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging, to identify underlying causes.

This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.