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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffIntestinal gas is always present throughout the length of the digestive tract, from the stomach to the rectum. We notice intestinal gas only if it is excessive or causing pain.
Excess intestinal gas in the stomach or upper intestine may result in excess burping or belching. Excess intestinal gas in your lower intestine may result in increased gas being passed from your anus (flatulence). Excess gas from either location can cause cramping or pain, often without an obvious pattern.
Most people burp occasionally and people pass gas rectally several times a day as a normal part of daily activities and food breakdown. Sometimes, excessive intestinal gas can indicate a digestive disorder.
- Gas in the digestive tract. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gas/. Accessed April 10, 2013.
- Belching, bloating and flatulence. The American College of Gastroenterology. http://patients.gi.org/topics/belching-bloating-and-flatulence/. Accessed April 10, 2013.
- Feldman M, et al. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Management. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2010. http://www.mdconsult.com/books/about.do?eid=4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-6189-2..X0001-7--TOP&isbn=978-1-4160-6189-2&about=true&uniqId=229935664-2192. Accessed March 30, 2013.
- Gas-related complaints. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal_disorders/approach_to_the_patient_with_lower_gi_complaints/gas-related_complaints.html. Accessed April 10, 2013.
- Wilkinson JM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 12, 2013.
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