Readers Digest
Magazine subscription Podcast
HomeHealthHealth Conditions

What is trapped wind?

BY READERS DIGEST

1st Jan 2015 Health Conditions

What is trapped wind?

Trapped wind is rarely the sign of a more serious problem; it's all part of the digestive process. Still, you may find it uncomfortable. Learning what causes trapped wind may help combat this problem

Trapped wind is a common digestive issue that affects people of all ages. It is a condition where excess gas gets stuck in the digestive system, causing discomfort, pain, and bloating.

While it is not usually a cause for concern, trapped wind can be very uncomfortable and can interfere with daily activities. Here's what you need to know about trapped wind. 

Why do I suffer from trapped wind?

One of the results of eating a very high-fibre diet may be that you suffer from excessive wind (flatulence). This is usually caused by the bacteria in your gut acting on any undigested carbohydrates and proteins. Mostly, this is not a serious problem—it is part of your digestive process, but if it becomes so uncomfortable that you feel bloated, there are various treatments.

"One of the results of eating a very high-fibre diet may be that you suffer from excessive wind"

If you have suddenly increased the amount of high-fibre foods in your diet, slow down a little, introduce these gradually and give your system time to adapt. Avoid eating too much food at a time and sip your drinks slowly—don't gulp them down all at once, as this makes you swallow extra air and may cause trapped wind.

Indigestion is largely a result of food not passing through your digestive tract as smoothly and comfortably as it should. It can cause nausea or heartburn as well as trapped wind and flatulence.

Dida™, a natural product from Scandinavia, can also aid stomach & digestive comfort as it has calmative ingredients to help reduce stomach problems and reduce fermentation and formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract. 

Severe trapped wind

If trapped wind or other signs of indigestion last for more than two weeks despite your best efforts, talk to your doctor. Go to your doctor if you have pain in your abdomen accompanied by black or bloody stools or vomiting.

"If trapped wind or other signs of indigestion last for more than two weeks, talk to your doctor"

Black stools sometimes come from iron supplements or from eating certain foods, but they may also be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Keep up with the top stories from Reader's Digest by subscribing to our weekly newsletter

 

This post contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you. Read our disclaimer

Loading up next...
Stories by email|Subscription
Readers Digest

Launched in 1922, Reader's Digest has built 100 years of trust with a loyal audience and has become the largest circulating magazine in the world

Readers Digest
Reader’s Digest is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards, please contact 0203 289 0940. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit ipso.co.uk