Flatulence in General Medical Practice
Objective of the Paper: To discuss the causes, types, and treatment options for flatulence. Key Points: Flatulence has been the topic of medical care throughout our history. Flatulence is one of the most common symptoms that causes people of different ages seek medical help. This article describes the causes of this widespread symptom and treatment options available for patients complaining of flatulence. Conclusion: During an office visit, a doctor should give equal consideration to both "serious" symptoms (pain, blood in stools, and vomiting) and those that may initially seem "harmless", such as flatulence. Flatulence may be one of early manifestations of severe illnesses. Moreover, it may rapidly deteriorate the quality of life and affect the patient's social adaptation.