About Flatulence
Flatulence is the passage of intestinal gas. It is often related to swallowed air, certain foods or normal digestion, but persistent gas with pain, bowel changes or weight loss may warrant assessment.
Symptoms can overlap between conditions. How they change, relevant health history, medications and risk factors are therefore as important as the condition name during an assessment.
Symptoms and details worth noting
Before a consultation, note the details that best describe the concern. They help the healthcare professional understand the problem and how urgent it may be.
- Where discomfort is located and when it occurs
- Changes in bowel movements, nausea, vomiting, appetite or weight
- Fever, blood, mucus or black stools
- Recent food, travel, illness, medication or antibiotic exposure
Possible causes and context
These factors can guide an assessment, but they cannot confirm a diagnosis on their own.
- Infection or food-related illness
- Diet, hydration and bowel habits
- Medication effects or food intolerance
- Inflammation or another digestive condition
LASO MD
How a virtual consultation may help
The healthcare professional first checks symptoms, risk factors and warning signs. Based on the assessment, they may discuss appropriate options or recommend in-person care.
- Review symptom timing and hydration
- Assess warning signs and relevant exposures
- Discuss supportive measures that may be appropriate
- Decide whether examination, blood work, stool testing or imaging is needed
Signs that need prompt attention
Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, a rigid abdomen, fainting, confusion or inability to keep fluids down.