belching after eating

I am 55 years old(female) About one week ago I had buring in my stomach right above my navel. I felt nausea but did not vomit. I had loose stool for 2 days. The burning has just about gone. However I still have belching after eating. My question is Is this acid reflux or a virus, or what? carol

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There are many things that may be causing the symptoms.  GERD or a viral gastroenteritis are possibilities.  Other causes can include an ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammation of the esophagus or stomach.  

A reasonable test to exclude more serious diseases would be an upper GI series or upper endoscopy.  I would also test for H Pylori - a bacteria that is associated with inflammation or an ulcer.  The upper GI series would demonstrate whether GERD is present or not.  

If those tests are negative, then irritable bowel syndrome should be considered and 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.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.