Gas Pain in Children

Gas or flatulence is a condition where the microorganisms present in the intestines break down the food and release excessive gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which is usually let out from the anus. It can lead to pain in the stomach and an uneasy feeling in the body.

Causes:

1. When foods that are not digested properly are broken down
2. Lactose intolerance
3. Swallowing air
4. Certain foods not being absorbed properly in the digestive system
5. When a child does other activities, while eating, then it can cause gas to accumulate air in the intestines leading to gas
6. The sweeteners present in chewing gums can get trapped in the intestines and ferment into gas
7. Vegetables such as cauliflower and broccoli can cause gas
8. Soft drinks that cause phosphoric acid can also lead to gas
9. Some children are sensitive to fat and fiber, and consuming these nutrients can lead to gas

The symptoms of gas pain in children are cramps in the stomach region along with diarrhea. It can also lead to irregular eating, being fussy about food and pulling up the legs to the belly.

Treatments and preventive measures:

1. Consuming food containing probiotics such as yoghurt and soy can help in treating gas
2. Eliminating vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower from your child's diet
3. Decreasing the amount of milk in the diet
4. Limiting consumption of chewing gums as they contain artificial sweeteners , which cause gas
5. A hot drink such as tea made from herbs like peppermint can help in easing the symptoms of gas
6. Encouraging your child to exercise can help in preventing gas
7. Getting your child to drink water in proper amounts
8. Consuming a healthy diet of vegetables and fruits