When you burp, it can be embarrassing to yourself and others. Burping occurs when you have a buildup of gas in your stomach. An air pocket forms in the stomach and needs a place to go. There is generally a cause for your burping and finding a solution to troublesome episodes involves figuring out what you were consuming up to 24 hours prior to an episode.
Burping
Burping is also referred to as belching, or dyspepsia. When you burp, you release the air safely, but it makes a characteristic sound as it leaves your mouth. Sometimes you may be swallowing air and not even realizing it -- this can lead to burping. Everyone burps from time to time, but excessive burping and belching could be the sign of a serious medical condition.
Causes
If you find yourself burping after a certain type of meal, you may have a condition called gastrophageal reflux disease. With GERD, your esophageal sphincter opens by itself spontaneously. This causes acid to build up and rise into the esophagus. Belching or burping can occur along with the acid, leading to intense stomach discomfort. Vomiting can occur. If your diet consists of foods such as onions, spicy foods, tomato-based foods, citrus, chocolate, alcohol, fatty or fried foods, and mint, burping can occur and lead to stomach discomfort.
Solutions
Your doctor may recommend a change in your diet. This could mean avoiding the foods that trigger your symptoms. He may tell you not to lie down for a few hours after a meal, to avoid burping and gastrointestinal distress. Elevating your head at night can help keep stomach acid down. Eating smaller, more frequent meals as opposed to large, heavy ones can also help reduce symptoms. Your doctor may also prescribe an antacid to help control symptoms. Choose foods from the main foods groups, such as low-fat dairy, lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables and fruits, as opposed to fast food or processed snacks.
Precautions
If you have belching that persists, even with medication and a change in your diet, it could be the sign of a significant health issue. If other symptoms are present, such as bloating, heartburn or stomach pain, you should notify your doctor immediately. An endoscopy is a procedure in which your stomach and intestines will be carefully examined to rule out cancer or problems with your liver and intestinal tract.
