Belching
Definition
Belching is the act of bringing up air from the stomach. It produces a characteristic (typical) sound.
Alternative Names
Burping; Eructation; Gas - belchingConsiderations
Belching is most often a normal process. The purpose of belching is to release air from the stomach. Everytime you swallow, air, along with fluid or food, is also swallowed. As the air builds up in the upper stomach, it causes stretching of the stomach that triggers the lower esophageal sphincter muscle to relax. This lets air escape up the esophagus and out the mouth.
Complaints of excessive or repeated belching may be the result of unconsciously swallowed air (aerophagia).
Depending on the cause, belching may change in duration and intensity. Symptoms such as nausea, dyspepsia, and heartburn may be relieved by belching.
Causes
- Pressure caused by the unconscious swallowing of air
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
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