The feeling of a rumbling stomach is often associated with excess gas. Many things can cause stomach gas and as it builds up, it causes abdominal distension, pain and swelling.
When gas builds in the stomach and intestine, and does not pass through via the rectum, it leads to bloating and belching. The pain associated with bloating may vary from mild to moderate. Passing gas or having a bowel movement can provide relief.
The gaseous or bloated feeling in the stomach may be caused by:
- Drinking carbonated beverages, as they release excess carbon dioxide gas
- Eating foods with high fibre content
- Consuming fatty foods, which can slow the emptying of the stomach
- Eating or drinking very fast, talking while eating, chewing gum, or constantly sucking candies, all of which can result in swallowing air
- Smoking, which can result in swallowing air
- Stress or anxiety
- Irritable bowel syndrome, as it’s known to cause alternating periods of gas, bloating, constipation or diarrhea
- Diabetes, as it’s known to cause slowing of the stomach and intestine
- Celiac disease or lactose intolerance, as these disorders disrupt one's ability to digest or absorb certain foods, such as lactose or gluten
- Acid reflux (also known as GERD), which can also result in a bloated sensation. With this disorder, the acid moves into the back of the throat and repeated actions to clear the acid can result in swallowing air and belching
At-home measures can be taken to reduce the sensation of movement in the stomach. They are mostly related to avoiding foods that produce gas.
To prevent excessive stomach gas, it may help to:
- Avoid foods such asbeans, broccoli, cabbage, peas, lentils, cauliflower, onions, broccoli, mushrooms and whole-wheat bread
- If dairy products cause the problem, try lactose-free products
- Consume fewer fatty foods, as thefat can slow digestion, which allows more time for food to ferment
- Eat fewer high-fibre foods, as these foods produce a lot of gas
- Eat slowly and walk after each meal
- Over-the-counter agents that contain simethicone may help dissolve the gas in the bowels
- Avoid chewing gum and hard candies
- Stop smoking, as the process of inhalation also results in swallowing air
- For heartburn or reflux, over-the-counter antacids may provide relief. If the acidity is worse, you may need prescription strength antacids.
For most people, the bloated or gaseous sensation is transient and there is no need to see a doctor. However, if the condition is prolonged, is associated with abdominal pain or blood in the stool, it is important to see a doctor to ensure that there is no medical disorder causing it.
