Trapped gas - have tried everything!

Thank you very much. I will give it a go and see. Much appreciated!!

Beth

The symptoms you are describing sound very much like SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth). I was diagnosed with it back in 2018 after having symptoms for 4 years. Ask your doctor to test you for it (most common test is a breath test).

How. It very well could be. About 2 years ago, I sent for my own SIBO breath test. Results were negative. However, my G.I. doc then said that these tests are "often" false negatives, and he proceeded to treat me with xofaxin I believe. Couldn't tolerate the Rx. Anyhow since then, I have read that SIBO comes and goes and that to be treated every time is dangerous as we know. So I have opted for the latter.

Try taking oregano oil and black seed oil. I would start with low-dose of each and see how well you tolerate it. I hope this helps. It will not be a quick fix but be patient. My heart goes out to you.!

These might provide some useful further reading and viewing on oil of oregano and black seed oil:

- 8 Benefits and Uses of Oregano Oil https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-oregano-oil-benefits-and-uses

- What Is Black Seed Oil? All You Need to Know https://www.healthline.com/health/video/black-seed-oil (note that this is a video)

Life changing. Had severe bloating, gas, and cramping. Gastrologist no help. Read Dr Davis, Super Gut 4 week program. Bingo. All pretty much gone. Took SFI's Ther-Biotic Synbiotic, Digestive Advantage Intensive Bowel Support (for added probiotic recommended stains, and Jarrow Ideal Support, Lactobacillus plantarum 299v. Didn't do week 4 of program. I feel 100 percent better. Highly recommend all products he recommends.

@lnw1 Thank you! I'm getting the book from the library online today. I too suffer from severe trapped gas - it really affects one's life! Sometimes I have to resort to an enema to get rid of the gas, when nothing else works - simethicone, yoga, hot water, abdominal massage, etc. The doctors say more fiber - but I think that adds to the problem. I'm so glad that it worked for you; fingers crossed for me and others!!

SUPER GUT is a great book! I had SIBO. After a few years of typical meds that treated the symptoms and NOT the cause, I found a doctor that finally tested for the cause of my symptoms. I took prebiotics followed by probiotics and a change in diet to relieve many symptoms referenced by others. I also became gluten free, sugar free (bacteria feed on the sugar) and dairy free. Gluten is a big cause of digestive issues even if you do not have Celiac disease. I removed sugar as a sweetener and use stevia as well as limit high sugar foods or products that add a lot of sugar. And I switched to nut milks and sheep or goats milk cheeses and yogurts as I tolerated those products well.
Best to you all dealing with gut issues. It takes discipline and work to find what works for you.

The only thing I’ve found really helped, was not eating out in restaurants. I control what goes into my food. It has really made a difference, not 100 percent but it really made a huge difference. Also when I shop I stay out of isles like candy pastries, pop, ice cream. Whole foods only way to good health.

Hi @elaine1212. It is nice to see you join Mayo Clinic Connect! Your comment describing how you have been able to improve your symptoms is encouraging and helpful. Thank you.

“Food as medicine” really does make sense, especially once it has been experienced. Like you, I make my meals at home so I know what goes into my food. I have identified a few safe restaurants as a treat or to meet friends. Otherwise, eating out has not been worth it.

Changing habits and avoiding processed (and ultra processed) food is difficult. How did you begin, and what do you say to others when they question or are critical? What symptoms have you been able to improve with your way of eating?