Trapped wind is gas that builds up in your gut and can't easily escape. While it's nothing to worry about, it can cause symptoms like bloating, cramps, excess gas, stomach rumbling, and pain.
There are many reasons why trapped wind can happen, like eating too quickly, wearing tight clothing, or an underlying reason like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or lactose intolerance.
Learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for trapped wind in our guide.
Three key takeaways
Trapped wind is common and usually clears up on its own.
Pharmacy treatments like simethicone or peppermint oil can ease it within a few hours.
See a GP if it's persistent, painful, or comes with other red-flag symptoms.
What are the symptoms of trapped wind?
Trapped wind can be mistaken for other digestive problems, but the most common signs include:
If you're not sure whether trapped wind is causing your symptoms, see your GP to confirm the diagnosis.
Chest pain and trapped wind
Gas in the stomach or on the left side of the colon can cause chest pain. Chest pain from trapped wind is uncomfortable but usually harmless, and most cases improve with simple lifestyle changes and gas‑relief measures.
On rare occasions, trapped wind pain can be mistaken for a heart attack. If you have severe or persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, or vomiting, it’s important to seek urgent medical help by calling 999.
What are the causes of trapped wind?
Trapped wind is usually caused by swallowing too much air. This can happen if you chew gum, smoke, drink fizzy drinks, eat or drink too fast, or talk while you're eating.
Tight clothing around your waist, like high-waisted skinny jeans, can also cause trapped wind. It constricts your stomach, making it harder for food and gas to pass through.
Some foods are more likely to cause excess gas:
cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower
beans and legumes
other foods high in soluble fibre
onions and garlic
Some people experience symptoms like bloating, stomach ache, and excessive flatulence due to a health condition. Possible underlying causes include:
If lifestyle and diet changes ease your symptoms, you probably won't need an official diagnosis.
But if your symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life, your GP may ask about them and run tests to rule out other conditions.
These might include an endoscopy to look inside your oesophagus and stomach, or a hydrogen breath test to check for SIBO or sugar intolerances. They may also suggest keeping a food diary to spot dietary triggers.
Our clinicians can help you decide whether you need to see a GP.
When should I see my GP for trapped wind?
See your GP if you:
have been bloated for three weeks or more
feel bloated regularly (more than 12 times a month)
“Trapped wind is uncomfortable, but it's rarely a sign of anything serious. Simethicone (Wind-Eze, Windsettlers, Rennie Deflatine) is a good first choice because it helps small gas bubbles join together, making them easier to pass. If your symptoms don't improve, or they keep coming back, speak to a pharmacist or your GP.”
There are plenty of lifestyle changes you can make to prevent trapped wind. If you deal with trapped wind often, you could try some of these preventative measures before turning to medicines for help:
chew with your mouth closed to avoid swallowing air
stay hydrated
eat smaller, more frequent meals
eliminate food that makes you bloated
increase your fibre intake
decrease intake of alcohol and fizzy drinks
try to eat slowly
avoid chewing gum
don’t drink through straws
try probiotics
It can take time to build healthy habits. But many of these will help to prevent trapped wind and benefit your overall health, too.
Frequently asked questions about trapped wind
Is trapped wind a sign of something serious?
Trapped wind isn’t usually a sign of something serious. In fact, it’s perfectly normal and relatively common.
However, if you’ve been bloated for three weeks or more, feel bloated often, or have red-flag symptoms, see your GP. If you have severe, sudden stomach pain or chest pain, get emergency help.
How long does trapped wind usually last?
An episode usually passes within a few minutes to a few hours. Some people have symptoms that come and go for several days, especially if constipation or IBS is involved. If it lasts longer or keeps coming back, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
What position gets rid of trapped wind fastest?
Lying on your back and pulling your knees towards your chest can help gas move along. Gentle movements, like walking, also help, and massaging your stomach from right to left.
Can trapped wind cause back pain?
Yes. Gas building up in the colon can cause pain in the ribs, back, and even the shoulder. If back pain is severe, constant, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms, see your GP.
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