Q: Sometimes, even if you do everything physically possible to avoid an embarrassing bodily function or gut sound, it cannot be avoided. The good news is that these noises and functions are common — they happen to absolutely everyone. So, while you may want to melt into the floor when your stomach makes a weird sound during your presentation, it may help to remind yourself that embarrassment (and gut noises) are universally experienced, and not something you need to obsess over.  Because the sounds our body makes are, ultimately, not totally under our control, try not to worry about it too much. If you'd like to minimize these noises, you can try the diet and lifestyle changes suggested in this article; but, unless it's indicating a more serious health problem, try not to worry about it too much. It is unlikely, too that anyone else is making as big of a deal out of your embarrassment as you are — it's possible, even, that no one else heard your stomach rumble. You may be experiencing the "spotlight effect," which is when you believe people are more focused on you and your actions than they really are. Everyone feels embarrassed at some point in his life — it's part of being human. And, believe it or not, embarrassment can actually be a positive thing. Research has found that people who display embarrassment are more likely to be kind and generous to others. In addition, a person who reveals his embarrassment is considered more likable and trustworthy by others. Maybe you know everyone heard the embarrassing gut noise because they responded with laughter, or a comment like "What was that?". There are many ways you can deal with the embarrassment in the moment (and some may be involuntary, such as blushing). One good tactic is to acknowledge what happened, then laugh it off or minimize it, and move on.  You could say something like, "Woah, sorry about that!" or even, "Well, that was embarrassing. Anyway..." Even if you want to run out of the room and hide, try just owning what happened and acting like it's no big deal. Take a deep breath if you need to get control of your emotions. Remember not to take yourself or the situation too seriously. Sometimes, people will dwell on an embarrassing moment weeks, months, even years or decades after the incident. But once the moment has passed, that's it — it's part of the past, and you need to keep moving forward and living. Reliving the experience doesn't change anything and neither does punishing yourself — especially because gut noises really aren't something you can even control!  If your stomach is noisy and you're afraid of being embarrassed by the sounds again and again in the future, you can do some work to prepare yourself for these moments, such as visualizing how you might react in the moment should it happen again. This way, you've already practiced what to do, and it will likely be easier for you to quickly move past it in the moment.  Don't let it stop you from living your life. You may be tempted to avoid situations with the potential for embarrassment (meeting someone at the library, where it's very quiet, giving a speech or presentation in front of a group, hanging out one-on-one with a crush, etc.), but it's important not to limit yourself based on something that might happen.
A: Understand that these noises are common. Know that it's okay to feel embarrassed. Learn to deflect. Move on.

Q: A guy will be more likely to notice you and remember you if he knows who you are. Strike up a conversation that makes sense: talk about a class that you're both in, a holiday that's coming up, or something that he's wearing.  If you're members of the same class, club, team, or friend circle, you will probably see each other on a regular basis. Take advantage of this proximity; spend time with him and build a friendship. Make a joke, or comment on an interest that the two of you share. If you're in the same class, ask him about the homework. If he's wearing a band t-shirt, ask him about the band. Getting to know someone online can mitigate much of the initial awkwardness. If you've gotten to know each other a bit in person, consider adding him on Facebook (or any site that you frequent).  Once you're friends online, consider striking up a conversation over instant-messaging. Lead in with something nonchalant: ask him about the homework, or about a deadline for a club. "Hey, I forgot to write down the homework for Mr. Hoover's class. Did you happen to get it?"  Once he answers your question, follow up with a more personal question. Something like, "So, any plans for spring break?"  Consider throwing in a compliment like, "By the way, good job on your presentation in English today! Your song was hilarious". Keep your first conversation brief, unless it's going particularly well. You can build into longer conversations as you get to know each other. Take the time to get to know this guy and make sure that you like what's beneath the surface. Once you've gotten to know each other, you might decide to take the friendship further.
A: Introduce yourself. Use social media to your advantage. Develop a friendship first.

Q: Bloating is caused by gas buildup in the stomach and intestines. This blockage leads to many different symptoms, such as excessive gas, frequent burping, and abdominal rumbling. You may notice visible swelling or puffiness in the abdomen. You may also experience abdominal pain, which can range from mild to intense or dull to sharp. Often, passing gas or having a bowel movement will relieve some of this pain. There are many things that can cause bloating. It can be from swallowing too much air and other gases, smoking, constipation, lactose intolerance, or overeating. Many of these can typically be helped without medical intervention. If you aren't sure about the cause of your bloating, ask your doctor.  Some conditions that commonly cause bloating include: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Celiac Disease, and Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). Other rarer conditions may also cause bloating. More serious disorders that may cause bloating are: ascites and tumors, celiac disease, dumping syndrome, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic insufficiency.  Your doctor may give you medication for these conditions, which will vary depending on the conditions and its severity. Always follow your doctor's orders about any prescription medication. Bloating should relieve itself after a day or so with the proper food or medical treatment. It may also relieve itself on its own if it is not a severe case of bloating. However, there are some situations that require medical attention. If your symptoms do not improve within two weeks of medical treatment, See your doctor immediately if you:  Experience pain so bad you cannot go through your daily activities or if it persists for days Have excessive diarrhea Are vomiting Pass bloody stools, or have a significant change in the frequency or color of your stools Experience unintended weight loss Have chest pain
A:
Recognize the symptoms of bloating. Determine the causes of bloating. Visit your physician.