Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Flatulence is harmless, but persistent gas can signal other conditions. Warning signs explained.
Flatulence itself is harmless and rarely causes complications. The concern is what an unusual pattern might point to, and the impact on daily life.
Effects of excess gas
Possible underlying conditions
Persistent excessive gas can signal a condition that needs treatment:
Warning signs
See a doctor promptly for:
Emergency
Severe belly pain with vomiting and no passage of gas or stool can mean bowel obstruction and needs urgent care. Call 112 or 102.
Chest pain is not gas
Chest pain, pressure, sweating or breathlessness may be a heart attack. Call 112 or 102.
Reducing risk
Good eating habits, trigger-food awareness, treating constipation and getting symptoms checked when they change all lower the chance of missing a more serious cause.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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