What to Know About Baby Gas and How to Treat It

And if the introduction of solid foods has resulted in more gas, you'll want to take note of whether certain foods appear to bring on your baby's symptoms.

When to Visit the Pediatrician

As a parent, it's often best to trust your gut. If you have a concern or your child seems uncomfortable or in pain, check in with their pediatrician. Sometimes, other issues can be at play when a baby is gassy that merit evaluation and treatment.

Food allergies

When fussiness, squirming, and other gassy behaviors persist beyond your baby's first few months, it's reasonable to consider a possible food allergy or intolerance. The biggest clue: They're dealing with other significant health problems, too.

"A baby or child with a food allergy will also probably have skin rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in her stool, and they may not be gaining enough weight," says Jean Molleston, M.D., a pediatric gastroenterologist and professor of clinical pediatrics at Indiana University School of Medicine. Visit the doctor if you suspect this.

Celiac disease

Gas pain is also a symptom of celiac disease, a serious intolerance to gluten. Children aren't born with this autoimmune disorder, but it can develop at any point when something in their environment "turns on" the genes that cause it. Ask your doctor to test your child for celiac disease if they're also experiencing growth issues, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, chronic diarrhea, or constipation, or if celiac or any other autoimmune diseases run in your family.

Overabundant breast milk supply

Producing an overabundance of breast milk can create a strong letdown and/or flow that causes your baby to gulp in extra air as they suck. This can result in excess gas in their tummy. You can often remedy this situation by pumping or hand expressing for a few minutes before breastfeeding.

Typically, an overabundance settles down as your body gets in tune with how much breast milk your baby is consuming. If not, consult with a doctor or lactation consultant to help you manage your breast milk supply.

Lactose overload