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, 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.

Common Causes:

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