Everything You Need To Know About Aerophagia
Aerophagia is a physiological phenomenon produced by excessive intake of air in the digestive tract, especially during meals. The term literally means “eating of the air.” It is a minor digestive disorder, but one that involves discomfort.
It is often responsible for the top air vent, commonly known as burping. It should not be confused with gastroesophageal reflux, which has similar symptoms.
As scientific evidence indicates, aerophagia can be aggravated in the presence of other pathologies, such as dyspepsia, or abdominal swelling. In children, aerophagia is relatively common and has been linked to infant colic.
What are the causes of aerophagia?
Typically, aerophagia is the result of an inadequate diet. It is usually related to excessive consumption of carbonated and sugary drinks or certain foods, such as sweets, breadcrumbs or chewing gum.
It can even be caused by bad eating habits, such as eating too fast. This encourages the entry of a large amount of air into the digestive tract.
It can also occur due to anxiety problems, such as stress. From a pathological perspective, it is common in people who do not properly coordinate the functions of swallowing and breathing. Which occurs frequently in people with mental pathologies.
What symptoms does it cause?
Aerophagia is manifested by a feeling of stomach heaviness, a feeling of bloating, and digestive problems. Burping, along with flatulence, is the way to ease digestion discomfort.
Among the symptoms of aerofagia include:
- Abdominal bloating: caused by the pressure of gases. Excess air causes the abdomen to be swollen. However, it can be confused with other symptoms.
- Abdominal pain : Sometimes the pain is transferred to the lower area of the sternum by pressing the air to both the stomach and the heart. The pain can be confused with that caused by angina pectoris.
- Intestinal noises : There are conditions that produce the symptoms of aerophagia. This is the case of gases that, in addition, give rise to noises in the intestine.
- Belching and odorless meteorism.
Which is the diagnosis?
The diagnosis is made when belching is repetitive and bothersome, at least several times a week. In addition, the amount of air that is swallowed is checked.
The fundamental thing in the diagnosis is to rule out organic pathologies such as diseases of the upper digestive tract, carbohydrate malabsorption, bacterial overgrowth and motility alterations, among others.
Can it be prevented?
To prevent aerophagia, it is advisable to maintain a proper diet, chew slowly and avoid certain foods that promote inflammation, such as soft drinks, sweets or chewing gum, among others.
If the swelling is due to stress, try to alleviate the anxiety with appropriate treatment or reduce it with regular sports and relaxation. The symptoms of aerophagia usually disappear spontaneously once the causes responsible for the disorder are treated.