What causes burping with food coming up in babies and adults? What are the treatments for this condition? Get the answers to these questions and more.

Regurgitation in Adults: Causes and Symptoms

Regurgitation in adults is often a symptom of acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These conditions are characterized by a backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus, which can lead to the regurgitation of gastric juices and undigested food. Common triggers for adult regurgitation include eating large meals, consuming certain foods, and lying down soon after eating.

Another rare condition that can cause frequent regurgitation in adults is rumination syndrome. This disorder involves the voluntary regurgitation of undigested food shortly after eating a meal. The exact causes of rumination syndrome are not fully understood, but it is often associated with mental health conditions or stressful experiences.

Other potential causes of regurgitation in adults include esophageal blockages, pregnancy, certain medications, smoking, and eating disorders like bulimia.

Symptoms of Regurgitation in Adults

The symptoms of regurgitation in adults can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

• Heartburn or chest pain
• Bitter or sour taste in the back of the throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Feeling of a lump in the throat
• Regurgitation of stomach acid or undigested food

In cases of rumination syndrome, additional symptoms may include:

• Frequent regurgitation soon after eating
• Fullness in the belly
• Bad breath
• Nausea
• Weight loss

Diagnosing Regurgitation in Adults

Acid reflux and GERD can usually be diagnosed based on the patient’s symptoms, but your doctor may order additional tests to determine the extent of esophageal damage and complications. These tests may include:

• X-ray
• Upper endoscopy
• Esophageal imaging

To diagnose rumination syndrome, your doctor will first rule out other conditions, such as GERD, before conducting additional testing, such as an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).

Regurgitation in Infants and Babies: Causes and Symptoms

Regurgitation is a common occurrence in infants and babies, especially during the first year of life. This is known as functional infant regurgitation and is characterized by frequent regurgitation (more than once per day) that is not accompanied by other symptoms.

Infants can also experience regurgitation due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), although this is less common in babies than in adults. Symptoms of GERD-related regurgitation in infants may include:

• Trouble swallowing food and liquids, leading to gagging or choking
• Irritability, back arching, or avoidance during feeding
• Frequent cough and pneumonia

If an infant’s regurgitation is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as blood or bile in the regurgitation, feeding problems, excessive crying, or breathing difficulties, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

Treating Regurgitation in Babies and Infants

Functional infant regurgitation is generally a harmless condition that resolves on its own within the first year of life. Treatment typically involves simple lifestyle adjustments, such as:

• Feeding smaller, more frequent meals
• Keeping the baby upright for 30 minutes after feeding
• Avoiding tight clothing that may put pressure on the baby’s stomach

If the regurgitation is due to GERD, the treatment may involve medications to reduce stomach acid, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem.

Treating Regurgitation in Adults

The treatment for regurgitation in adults depends on the underlying cause. For acid reflux and GERD, treatment may include:

• Dietary changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding lying down after eating
• Medications to reduce stomach acid, such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors
• In severe cases, surgery to strengthen the esophageal sphincter or repair a hiatal hernia

For rumination syndrome, the treatment may involve a combination of behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and, in some cases, medications to reduce regurgitation.

Preventing Regurgitation

To help prevent regurgitation in both babies and adults, it’s important to identify and avoid any potential triggers, such as certain foods, large meals, or lying down after eating. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing any underlying medical conditions can all help reduce the risk of regurgitation.