Extreme flatulence is excessive gas expelled through the rectum, often caused by diet and lifestyle. Avoiding certain foods and ingestion of air, as well as exercise and over-the-counter medications, can relieve symptoms. Severe cases may require medical attention.
Flatulence is a term used to describe the expulsion of gas through the rectum. Therefore, extreme flatulence is this process in excess of what is considered normal for most people. The average person passes gas between four and 20 times a day. Any amount much higher than 20 is considered excessive and may indicate an underlying digestive problem. It may also indicate that the person has consumed a food or drink that causes them to produce unusually large amounts of gas, but this is usually a temporary state.
The most common causes of extreme flatulence are eating habits and lifestyle. Gas enters the intestines in only one of two ways. The first is swallowed air entering through the mouth and making its way through the stomach and into the colon. The second is through the breakdown of certain foods by intestinal bacteria that are naturally present in the body.
Those experiencing extreme flatulence may just need to avoid eating foods that are known to cause intestinal gas to relieve symptoms. Gas is most commonly caused by foods that contain large amounts of fructose, such as fruits, beans and some vegetables; and lactose, which is found in milk. Cruciferous vegetables also cause excessive gas production, as do carbonated drinks like soda. Avoiding these things can quickly relieve flatulence.
Ingestion of air should also be avoided in those suffering from extreme flatulence. This most commonly occurs while chewing gum, talking, eating too fast, or smoking. Carbonated drinks can also draw air into the stomach. Most of the swallowed air leaves the mouth, but some can enter the large intestine.
There are also over-the-counter gas medications that can relieve gas. In some cases, distension and painful swelling may occur if the excess gas is not expelled quickly enough. These cases may warrant stronger drugs. Exercise can also help loosen trapped gas so it can pass more easily.
Extreme flatulence can be an embarrassing problem affecting social interaction in sufferers. Some people may continue to experience extreme cases of gas and flatulence due to digestive issues and may need to find ways to deal with the problem. There are sanitary pads that are worn over undergarments that contain charcoal and can help neutralize odors.
When severe gas doesn’t improve with dietary and lifestyle changes, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Flatulence that is not remedied with proper eating habits is rare, but can occur with certain digestive conditions. Treatments may be available for the underlying problem upon diagnosis by a doctor.
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