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Gas - flatulence

Definition:

Gas, also called flatus or flatulence, is air in the intestine that is passed through the rectum. Air that is passed from the digestive tract through the mouth is called belching .

Alternative Names:

Flatulence (flatus)

Considerations:

Gas is formed in the intestines as food is being digested. Gas can make you feel bloated, which may cause crampy or colicky abdominal pain .

Common Causes:

Gas can be caused by any of the following:

References:

Birrer RB. Irritable bowel syndrome. Dis Mon . 2002; 48(2): 105-143.

Lovelace HY. Diagnosis, symptoms, and calcium intakes of individuals with self-reported lactose intolerance. J Am Coll Nutr . 2005; 24(1): 51-57.

Andrès E. Food-cobalamin malabsorption in the elderly. Am J Med . 2002; 113(4): 351-352.

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