Causes of Belching and Bloating

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Belching is the expulsion of gas from the gut through the mouth (eructations). Bloating may occur due to gas trapped within the gastrointestinal tract and this is often relieved upon belching.

Belching and bloating may be due to food, eating habits, or disorders in the stomach, small intestine or gallbladder. Bloating and gas may not always be expelled or relieved by a belch and other factors and conditions should be considered in cases of excessive bloating and gas.

Belching After Eating – Air Swallowing (Aerophagia)This may be voluntary or involuntary. Air usually enters the esophagus and is expelled as a belch. It usually does not cause any discomfort or bloating.

Causes of air swallowing:
Fast eating or drinking
Mouth breathing
Nasal blockage
Hyperventilation related to anxiety
Regular gum chewing
Poorly fitted dentures
Treatment is by removing the cause.

Belching After DrinkingCarbonated drinks like soda and beer cause a build up of gas within the stomach and esophagus. This is then expelled as a belch. Certain antacids cause the formation of carbon dioxide as a byproduct to neutralizing stomach acid.
Treatment is by avoiding carbonated drinks and excessive amount of antacids.

How to Burp?
A simple method is to take several short gulps of air. The air should be swallowed partially so that it remains within the esophagus. Once there is sufficient air build up, the air can be regurgitated similar to a burp. This method should not be used excessively immediately after a meal as it can trigger vomiting at times.

How to Burp a Baby?
A baby should be carried upright and supported against the shoulder while a gentle rubbing motion is conducted on the baby’s back. Other methods that may assist is supporting baby in a 45 degree angle between the upright and supine (lying flat) position. Gentle taps on baby’s back may assist in this position to trigger a burp.

There is no set time for a baby to burp. Infants tend to swallow air when drinking so it is advisable that baby should burp within 20 minutes after a feed. However baby may burp well after this period quite naturally.