How long does the flatulence last?
It is very difficult to estimate the duration of flatulence. This is due to the fact that the gases are transported towards the rectum with the rhythmic tensing and relaxing of the intestinal muscles, just like the stool itself. Therefore, if gases escape via the rectum, they only last as long as the peristaltic wave.
Flatulence is therefore periodically present and can be accompanied by pauses. However, severe flatulence can last for hours. A persistence for days does not have to be pathological, but can indicate a possible dysfunction of the intestinal activity.
How can flatulence be avoided?
In itself, flatulence has no disease value. Rather, they are to be seen as a symptom that accompanies the digestive process. It is completely natural that gases are produced.
They only become pathological when additional complaints such as stomach aches, diarrhoea or cramps occur. If such complications occur with flatulence, prevention is advisable. If the cause of flatulence is increased air swallowing during feeding, it is recommended to use an anti-colic attachment when feeding with the bottle.
For breastfeeding mothers, it is important to find out whether the baby may need more frequent meals. Hurried drinking can be an indication of a strong feeling of hunger. Changing the position of the nipple during breastfeeding can also help the baby to be able to embrace the nipple better.
Here it is important to vary with sensitivity and to observe changes closely. After feeding, the baby should be held in an upright position for a while to do a so-called “burp”. The effect of the air burp is that swallowed air can escape via the mouth and is not transported into the rest of the gastrointestinal tract.
Flatulence is thus reduced as much as possible. In order for the baby to be able to push up the air, a light pat on the back with the hand can be helpful. Parents should not be surprised if this can take a few minutes.
If a baby regularly has flatulence and suffers from it, the food supplied should be considered as a trigger. Thus, flatulent foods such as cooked cabbage or peas should be avoided when feeding the baby. If no real trigger is found, food intolerance should also be considered. This can be treated well by a specific diet.
