These disorders may give a false sensation of bloating because of increased sensitivity to gas. Symptoms include bloating, muscle spasms, and upper abdominal discomfort. Any disease that causes intestinal obstruction, such as Crohn's disease or colon cancer, may also cause abdominal bloating. If there is any doubt one should always consult with their physician or other health care professional. Finally, eating a lot of fatty food can delay stomach emptying and cause bloating and discomfort, but not necessarily too much gas.
Some people have pain when gas is present in the intestine.
When gas collects on the left side of the colon, the pain can be confused with heart disease. When it collects on the right side of the colon, the pain may feel like the pain associated with gallstones or appendicitis. Because gas symptoms may be caused by a serious disorder, those causes should be ruled out. The doctor usually begins with a review of dietary habits and symptoms. If lactase deficiency is the suspected cause of gas, the doctor may suggest avoiding milk products for a period of time.