Belching

What is it?

Belching is the release of gas from the upper digestive tract (esophagus and stomach). It is a normal physiologic process occurring a few times daily, primarily to release swallowed air. Supragastric belching — the most common form of excessive belching — is behavioral: air is rapidly sucked into the esophagus and immediately expelled without reaching the stomach. It is closely associated with anxiety and functional GI disorders. GERD and functional dyspepsia are frequent underlying conditions. Excessive belching is rarely a sign of serious organic disease.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Excessive belching with regurgitation, heartburn, or dysphagia — GERD evaluation
• 2Belching with nausea, early satiety, and bloating — functional dyspepsia or gastroparesis
• 3Belching that is new and severe in an older adult with weight loss
• 4Belching with significant anxiety or stress — behavioral therapy may be indicated

What you can do

• ✓Eat and drink slowly — reduces swallowed air
• ✓Avoid carbonated beverages and beer
• ✓Sit upright for at least 30 minutes after eating
• ✓Do not chew gum or suck on hard candies — continuous swallowing increases air intake
• ✓Diaphragmatic breathing and speech therapy techniques are effective for supragastric belching

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions