Gas and gas pains

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  • With Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist

    Michael Picco, M.D.

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Mayo Clinic Health Manager

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Question

Nervous stomach: Is there such a thing?

Is there such a thing as a nervous stomach? I've been told that I have one.

Answer

from Michael Picco, M.D.

"Nervous stomach" isn't a specific diagnosis or a recognized disease. Some doctors may use the term to generally describe symptoms of indigestion, bloating or changes in bowel habits — especially after diagnostic tests fail to reveal a specific cause, such as an ulcer or gallstones. You might ask your doctor to be more specific about what the term means in your individual situation. You might also ask if any tests are needed to diagnose or rule out other possibilities.

AN01408

Aug. 8, 2008

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