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The past few long flights I've taken have wreaked havoc on my system. My stomach gets very distended and I end up vomiting. I've driven up to the Colorado mountains today, and the same thing has happened - distended stomach and vomiting. There seems to be a correlation between altitude and my new j-pouch system getting out of whack. I've taken some Pepto Bismol just now, which has helped my condition the past few times this happened. I just can't figure out the reason this happens and what I could do to prevent it. Has anyone else experienced this??

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Do you know how to get into positions to help expel gas? The basic thing is to get your butt up above your head, as gas rises. A good one is to get on your hands and knees then lower your head and front arms to the floor leaving your but up high to let the gas rise and you will be expelling is soon. Another is to stand up and touch your toes with your fingers and hold. Things like this, helps you get rid of gas quicker.

I hope these help. Gas is a big problem for some of us. I also have Fibromyalgia and when the weather changes, like season changes, thunderstorms and fluctuations in temperature. Flying bothers me too. Do you have any other autoimmune diseases or syndromes?
TE Marie
Jan: Thank you so much for the immediate reply; I was able to sleep easier that evening relieved that it didn't appear to be something more serious! I'm guessing I should have something like Gas-X on hand for my next flight or trek to the mountains just in case the symptoms rear their ugly head (in addition to eating lightly beforehand). Would Gas-X be the right product to have on hand, or do you suggest something different?


TE Marie: I do not have any other autoimmune disorders. Now that I'm aware that gas has that effect in high altitudes, I'll definitely try your suggestions next time. Thanks!
U
Depends. Once gas is in your intestines, simethicone (Gas-X and similar products) don't do much. People think this stuff makes gas disappear, absorbs gas, or something equally magical. Simethicone jus makes little bubbles join together into a big bubble that is easier to burp or fart. Until it exits, it exerts the same pressure all the way through. That said, sone people say it helps them, but I am not sure if it is a placebo effect or the real thing.

Gas is better prevented than treated. Most gas is due to bacteria acting upon undigested carbs or swallowed air. Wolfing your food down causes you to swallow air. So does using a straw or drinking carbonated beverages (including beer). Digestive enzymes, like Beano and lactase, can help prevent gas.

Jan Smiler
Jan Dollar

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