What Conditions Cause Constant Burping?
Burping or belching typically occurs when individuals swallow air while eating a meal. It can also occur after drinking soda or other carbonated beverages. In both of these instances, the ingested air travels back up the esophagus and out of the mouth, triggering a burp. Generally, burping is considered harmless. Smokers and individuals who wear dentures are more likely to have episodes of burping. In addition, individuals who eat too quickly and those who regularly chew gum or suck on hard candies are more prone to burping. Patients who have frequent episodes of burping should visit the doctor to have an examination. In rare cases, frequent burping can be a sign of a more serious medical condition that needs treatment.
The conditions outlined below are some of those most commonly seen in patients who experience frequent or constant burping.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a disease of the digestive system. It develops when stomach acid irritates the esophagus. In patients with this condition, stomach acid backs up into the esophagus instead of remaining in the stomach. The most common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease include heartburn and a bitter taste in the mouth. Sometimes, symptoms of heartburn can last for up to two hours. Patients with this condition are typically treated with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. For example, patients are encouraged to avoid tomatoes, chocolate, citrus fruits, peppermint, coffee, alcohol, and foods high in fat, as these foods and drinks can irritate the esophagus and worsen symptoms. Many patients may need to take antacids or proton pump inhibitors to reduce the production of stomach acid in the body. For patients with severe symptoms of reflux disease, surgery may sometimes be recommended.
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Peptic Ulcers
A peptic ulcer is an open sore that occurs on the stomach lining and along the upper part of the small intestine. Up to seventy-five percent of individuals with these ulcers have no symptoms. When symptoms of the ulcers are present, they generally include pain in the stomach, a feeling of fullness or abdominal bloating, frequent burping, and nausea. Many patients also experience heartburn, and they may notice they have trouble tolerating high-fat or fried foods. Patients who take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines and certain types of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are at an increased risk of developing peptic ulcers. To diagnose stomach ulcers, doctors may order an endoscopy, a test in which a tiny camera is inserted through the mouth so the doctor can see the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Special x-rays may also be ordered. Treatment normally includes prescription medicines to reduce stomach acid. In some cases, patients may be prescribed sucralfate, a cytoprotective medicine that protects the stomach lining. Doctors will also recommend patients reduce or stop their use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and they will also advise patients to avoid smoking. Patients may wish to consider eliminating dairy from their diets during treatment; consuming dairy may increase acid production.
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