After meals, I often get air pockets (gas) either in my stomach or in the area between my
chest and stomach. It is extremely painful, and only slightly relieved when I burped. Is there any medicine or
solution for this problem? Would a change in diet help?
Dr Law Ngai Moh, Specialist in Gastroenterology, Raffles Hospital
This is a common gastrointestinal (GI) symptom known as "Dyspepsia". This is due to acid
secretion problem or over distention and irregular contraction of stomach related to meal ingestions. Change in
eating habits and diet restriction will alleviate most of the symptoms.
Frequent small regular meals are recommended. Avoid overeating, rushing through food or excessive
conversation while eating so that air will not be swallowed unknowingly. Diet restriction includes reducing the
intake of oily, spicy or sour food and stopping cigarettes and alcohol consumption. For patients with persistent
symptoms, medical consultation is needed. Treatments by the family physicians include antacid, acid blocker and
medicines that regulate stomach and gut distention/contractions.
Finally, individuals who fail treatment may need referral to the gastroenterologist for
endoscopy of the stomach and intestine.