Gas Pain: 6 Symptoms of Gas in the Stomach & Intestines

Updated in April 2022

Gas in the stomach or intestines is relatively common. Associated symptoms usually include bloating, abdominal discomfort and constant burping. 

Normally these symptoms emerge due to swallowing too much air, which can happen following a large meal or when you talk too much when you are eating. This extra air is released through flatulence or burping and symptoms are usually almost instantaneously relieved. 

Nonetheless, there are some cases in which gas is unable to be easily released, like when you are constipated. In these cases, symptoms can be more intense and lead to complications, like cardiac abnormalities. 

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Symptoms will vary depending on where the gas has accumulated_ 

1. Stomach gas

When gas accumulates in the stomach, common symptoms include: 

  1. Feeling full 
  2. Frequent burping
  3. Loss of appetite 
  4. Burning throat 
  5. Sharp chest pain 
  6. Shortness of breath 

You can reduce stomach gas by avoiding chewing gum, eating slowly and not speaking during meals. These can all lead to increased air entering the digestive track when eating. 

2. Intestinal gas

Symptoms that may indicate trapped intestinal gas include: 

  1. Intense abdominal pain that can feel sharp 
  2. Bloating 
  3. Hard belly
  4. Flatulence
  5. Constipation
  6. Intestinal cramping

These symptoms can vary in intensity according to each person’s tolerance and the quantity of gas that has accumulated. 

What causes excess gas  

Stomach gas usually accumulates from swallowing air when eating. This can frequently occur when you talk while eating or if you drink gassy drinks. 

Accumulation of intestinal gas usually occurs due to a history of constipation or with excessive consumption of foods that promote the formation of gas in the large intestine. Examples of gassy foods include eggs, cauliflower, onions and peas. Sweeteners like sorbitol, fructose and vitamin C can also cause gas in certain people. Learn more about foods that cause gas and bloating

How to get rid of gas

There are some home remedies you can try to treat and prevent excess gas, like: 

  • Drinking fennel or mint tea after meals
  • Walking 20 to 30 minutes after meals 
  • Maintaining a balanced diet, making sure to eat foods rich in fiber and to drink plenty of water 
  • Avoiding sodas and other gassy drinks when eating 
  • Avoiding carb-heavy foods, like pasta, lasanha and fondue 
  • Drinking milk and consuming dairy products in moderation

Check out other ways you can treat gas at home.