Belching

What is Belching

Belching is most often a normal process. The purpose of belching is to release air from the stomach. Every time you swallow, you also swallow air, along with fluid or food. The buildup of air in the upper stomach causes the stomach to stretch. This triggers the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus (the tube that runs from your mouth to the stomach) to relax. Air is allowed to escape up the esophagus and out the mouth.

Excessive or repeated belching may be caused by swallowing air without realizing it (aerophagia). Belching may last longer or be more forceful depending on what is causing it. Symptoms such as nausea, dyspepsia, and heartburn may be relieved by belching. You can get relief by lying on your side or in a knee-to-chest position until the gas passes. Avoid chewing gum, eating quickly, and eating gas-producing foods and beverages.