What helps trapped gas pain?
Movement first: a brisk ten minute walk shifts trapped gas better than any position on the couch. Knee-to-chest lying, a warm pack on the belly, and peppermint or ginger tea all really help it pass.
Simethicone is safe and helps some people, though evidence is modest.
Gas pain can masquerade dramatically, even mimicking chest pain, but true alarm features, severe constant pain, fever, vomiting, a rigid abdomen, or pain marching to the lower right, mean assessment, not tea.
Source: NHS, bloating
See a doctor promptly if
- Food sticking or difficulty swallowing, or pain on swallowing
- Unintentional weight loss with indigestion or bloating
- Vomiting blood, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Black tarry stools, or a new diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia
- Persistent vomiting, or a mass felt in the upper abdomen
- New persistent bloating on most days for three weeks or more, especially in women over 50
Answered by the AskDoc Medical Team · Medically reviewed under our Medical Director, MBBS · How we review
Unglamorous and well proven
Daily psyllium helps constipation, modestly lowers cholesterol, and steadies blood sugar after meals. Start small and drink water with it.
Buying through this link supports the free library with a small commission. It never changes a pick.
A question about your own situation?
One question, answered personally by a doctor in writing within 24 hours.
People also ask
Health education, not medical advice.