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Belching - Overview

Alternative Names

Burping; Eructation; Gas - belching

Definition of Belching:

Belching is the act of bringing up air from the stomach. It produces a characteristic (typical) sound.

Considerations:

Belching is most often a normal process. The purpose of belching is to release air from the stomach. Every time you swallow, you also swallow air, along with fluid or food.

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.

Excessive or repeated belching may be caused by unconsciously swallowing 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.

Common Causes:

Pressure caused by the unconscious swallowing of air
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Reviewed last on: 10/31/2009
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Ohge H, Levitt MD. Intestinal gas. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2006:chap 10.

Rao SSC, Attaluri A. Gaseousness and indigestion. In: Rakel P, Bope ET, eds. Conn's Current Therapy 2009. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2008:chap 3.

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