Trapped Wind Relief

Gas is a natural byproduct of food digestion and is produced in our bodies every day. Some people produce more than others and certain food or drinks can lead to a higher amount. But if this wind finds it difficult to escape from the bowel, then it can become trapped. Trapped wind is not a serious condition, but it can be uncomfortable and can lead to sufferers complaining of a bloated feeling and abdominal pain.

The cause of trapped wind differs greatly and can affect people for varying amounts of time. For some, it could be an occasional problem that occurs as a result of gas-producing foods (beans, onions, green vegetables and anything high in fat). For other people, it could be happening daily and could be due to any number of stomach complaints.

If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) then you may regularly notice trapped wind as part of your disorder (along with diarrhoea and constipation). Constipation on its own (unrelated to an ongoing condition) is another cause because if you aren’t passing stools then it makes it easier for gas to become trapped.

Trapped wind can also be caused by food intolerances, with common culprits being gluten, lactose, soy and eggs. If your body can’t tolerate certain ingredients, then they may irritate the digestive system and create trapped wind as a result.

Sometimes, getting trapped wind can simply be down to swallowing too much air. Following the same sentiment of ‘what goes up, must come down’, the air that goes into your body must come out somehow (which is usually out through our mouths via burping or out of our rear end via flatulence). As we know though, sometimes this air gets trapped and can produce the bloating and stomach pains. Chewing gum, drinking fizzy drinks and smoking are all activities that mean we take in excess air, and could all be responsible for trapped wind.

Medication for Trapped Wind

Trapped wind is not usually an ongoing problem; that is, even if you experience it daily, you will also experience daily relief. The bloating and pain associated with trapped wind can be uncomfortable so it’s advised to do what you can to encourage it to pass.

Exercising can help to get the trapped gas moving and encourage it through your digestive system. Even taking a short walk can make a big difference, as can massaging your stomach to move the trapped wind through your gut. In terms of herbal remedies, peppermint (tea or oil) is praised for helping to relieve trapped wind, but it’s not suitable with certain medical complaints or prescription medicines so always make sure before taking anything.

If you’re finding that the natural, self-performed remedies aren’t working for you then you’ll find effective results with our range of medications. Dedicated to helping you feel the best that you can, we offer our products with flexible delivery options.

To prevent yourself getting trapped wind again, you may want to consider changing your eating habits (if you’ve noticed certain triggers), avoiding taking in excess amounts of air and drinking plenty of water to avoid constipation.