Belching, also called burping, is the release of gas or air from the stomach through the mouth. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, 7 percent of people experience severe, bothersome belching on a regular basis. On average, people pass gas up to 20 times per day. Severe belching may be related to digestive abnormalities or underlying conditions that interfere with any part of the digestive system.
Indigestion
Indigestion, medically referred to as dyspepsia, is not a disease, but rather the name for a collection of symptoms that occur after a rapid consumption of food or the ingestion of bothersome foods. These symptoms include a burning pain in the stomach, nausea, bloating and severe, uncontrollable belching. Although it is often referred to as heartburn, KidsHealth from Nemours notes that indigestion and heartburn are different conditions. Occasional indigestion triggered by certain foods usually is not a cause for concern, but if indigestion occurs after all eating or frequently during exercise, it may indicate an underlying medical condition.
Peptic Ulcers
A peptic ulcer is an open sore that develops, usually in the lining of the stomach or the first portion of the small intestine, called the duodenum. Peptic ulcers also occasionally affect the esophagus. The most common cause of a peptic ulcer is the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Another common cause of the development of peptic ulcers is the overuse nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin. Symptoms of a peptic ulcer include a mild to intense burning pain in the stomach, belching, bloating, weight loss, poor appetite, nausea and vomiting. Peptic ulcers can be healed with medications that reduce stomach acid and coat the stomach lining to protect it from acid. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the ulcer is caused by bacteria.
Hiatal Hernia
The diaphragm, a thin muscle located under the ribs, helps with breathing. There is a small opening in the diaphragm called the hiatus where the esophagus passes through so it can connect to the stomach. A hiatal hernia develops when part of the stomach gets pushed up and through the opening of the hiatus. The exact cause of a hiatal hernia is unknown, but a number of conditions, including injury, genetic disorders and constant pressure on the surrounding muscles, are thought to be contributing factors, according to MayoClinic.com. Hiatal hernias can cause severe belching, heartburn, chest pain and nausea. Treatment for a hiatal hernia is aimed at symptom relief and consists of antacids and medications to reduce stomach acid production. In some rare cases, surgery may be needed to pull the stomach down and repair the hernia.
