Ever notice how some people seem to burp excessively? While the occasional burp is perfectly normal, frequent belching could indicate certain lifestyle habits or underlying health issues. So, what causes that extra gas?
1. Aerophagia: The Air Swallowing Culprit
Aerophagia occurs when you swallow too much air while eating or drinking, leading to a buildup of gas in your digestive system. This can cause frequent burping, flatulence, and stomach discomfort—and your daily habits may be to blame.
You’re more likely to experience aerophagia if you eat too quickly, chew gum, enjoy hard candies, sip soda, use straws, smoke, or breathe through your mouth.
Fortunately, burps from aerophagia are usually odorless. To reduce them, try eating more slowly and chewing your food thoroughly. Avoid gum, candies, and fizzy drinks that increase air intake.
2. Emotional Rollercoaster
Feeling anxious or scattered? Emotional stress can also lead to excessive burping. When stressed, you might unconsciously swallow or release air from your esophagus without realizing it. Like aerophagia, these burps are typically odor-free.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you retrain your breathing patterns, while voice therapy can teach you techniques to unnecessarily prevent air from entering your esophagus.
3. GERD: When Your Stomach Talks Back
Nearly half of people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) experience frequent burping. GERD occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and potential complications.
Dr. Kim Dae Ha of Yonsei Hana Hospital explains, “With GERD, the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus relaxes too much, allowing air to escape and causing frequent burps. Stomach acid often comes up with it.”
The good news? Medications for GERD can help reduce these symptoms, including excessive burping.
4. Functional Dyspepsia: Tummy Troubles Galore
If you burp frequently, functional dyspepsia might be the cause. This condition lasts over three months and causes various digestive problems, such as bloating, upper abdominal pain, heartburn, and feeling full too quickly.
Triggers for functional dyspepsia may include abnormal stomach movements, excessive stomach acid, H. pylori infection, or stress.
Treatment often involves medications to improve stomach function and dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Avoid gassy foods like garlic, onions, and apples, which can worsen bloating. If stress is a contributing factor, speaking with a therapist may help.
5. Gastric Neuropathy: When Your Stomach Gets Nervous
In some cases, excessive burping might signal gastric neuropathy, a condition where psychological factors cause your stomach to malfunction.
Dr. Kim explains, “Without a clear physical cause, the stomach might act up, leading to nervous burping, vomiting, reflux, and a loss of appetite.” Gastric atony, where the stomach weakens and slows down, is another possible culprit.
With gastric atony, food lingers in the stomach for too long, triggering frequent burps. This condition often affects individuals with slim, tall builds and may leave patients feeling sluggish and irritable.
Most Commented