Q. I suffered both flatulence and abdominal pain for more than three years to a degree of misery I’d like to forget. I had lots of tests for digestive problems but they showed no problem and my doctors could offer no help.
Eventually I figured out that my prescription medicine was causing the problem and stopped taking it, with my doctor’s permission. I am now pain free and no longer suffer from excessive gas.
A. Congratulations on superb problem solving. Many medications can cause stomach upset and flatulence. Some include osteoporosis drugs like Fosamax, cholesterol-lowering drugs like Tricor and even pain relievers such as naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).
We have a more complete list, along with a discussion of treatments for flatulence, constipation and heartburn, in our Guide to Digestive Disorders.