Constant Belching

I've been battling a strange belching problem for a few years now and it's getting increasingly worse.  I've had a colonoscopy and upper GI tests, showing nothing.  I don't just belch with food, it's from the time I get up to the time I go to bed.  I've been successful at being able to control the belching in public, keeping in quiet, but it's getting more difficult now as it's more frequent.  It's a feeling that makes me induce the belch for relief, does that make any sense to anyone.  It is ALL day long.  I'm intrigued with something I just read about aerophagia.  When I was 3 yrs old, I was operated on for an intestinal obstruction.  Following, my parents were told I would be air swallower.  However, I am now 58 and never prior to the last few years, have I had a problem with the belching and also gas constantly.  I've lived with this awhile now and hoping it isn't life threatening, i.e. concerned that I read a post about a man who's only symptom before bypass surgery was belching.  I do have inherited high blood pressure and high cholesterol but have excellent cardio stress test results.  Is there anyone who can comment or make any recommendations?  Would an endoscopy show up anything?  That is the one test I have not had.  Would appreciate any advice or speculation that I could follow up on!  Thanks so much.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Various types of upper GI diseases can result in increased gas and belching.  This can include GERD, an ulcer, inflammation of the upper digestive tract, or liver/gallbladder disease.  

Further evaluation can be considered with an upper GI series or upper endoscopy.  The liver and gallbladder can be considered with an abdominal ultrasound.  I would also consider blood tests looking for H Pylori - a bacteria associated with ulcers or inflammation.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[Shebah]

I am sorry that I can't answer your question, but I do have something to add. I have been ill and have worried alot about my symptoms. I know how easy it is to read about one man and his ONLY symptom. I just want you to think about how great the chance is that something like that will happen with you. I know that if you sit yourself down and think about it, you will smile and think the chances are very slim.

Anyhow, If you are still worried, then you should talk to your doctor about it. This way you will be sure.

Hope that my comment helps you relax a bit if nothing else.