egg burps

i know whats wrong,the prilosec is causing it! the food you eat ferments in your stomache and causes the egg burps,and diahrrrea and throwing up! i had this problem for a long time,until i quit taking prilosec. once i stopped taking it, it never happened again. and other acid reducers can cause it as well!


This discussion is related to Sulphuric/ Eggy burps and stomach cramps.

[bobad]

Well, you're on the right track!

It's an infection, really more of an infestation of the food in your digestive tract. It's probably caused by a type of yeast. As far as I know, yeasts are the only organism that can ferment food and create gas in such copious amounts.

The infestation starts high up in the small intestines, and produces the foul-smelling gas which is burped. Tiny amounts of hydrogen sulphide gas is responsible for the characteristic egg odor. The infestation progresses downward, and when it leaves the small intestine, passing into the large intestine, the burping stops but the flatulence begins. The last stage is diarrhea, so when it begins, it's actually good news. The worst part is over in 2-3 days, but may linger with milder symptoms for another few days. Byproducts of the infection are poisonous, but luckily produced in minute amounts. That's why you sometimes feel sick and nauseated. Alcohols are also produced in small amounts, probably types of alcohol that give you a hangover.

This infestation is not real harmful, is not dangerous, is not due to your diet (though  contaminated food may be a source for the causative organism). It's not due to a defective bowel or metabolic disorder. Nothing save antibiotics will stop it, but it normally runs its course before antibiotics have time to kick in..

I suspect people who take proton pump inhibitors are more susceptible than others, because stomach acid is valuable for killing organisms you swallow with raw or contaminated foods.

The best remedies are aluminum (found in Rolaids), lemon juice or small amounts of vinegar could possibly inhibit the yeast. A mild laxative should speed up the process, Staying off food for a while, especially sweets, fruit,  and wheat should be helpful. Strong mint could helps mask the odor of the early stages.

Socially, this is the world's worst condition. Medically, it's pretty trivial, unless there are severe cases I haven't heard of.

That's all I know, hope it's enough to help someone.

[mandylynn0621]

I have this problem chronically....it does feel like hangover every day. i also have chronic constipation. Does it really produce alcohol? This is very interesting and would make sense as to why i feel like i am being drugged and tired.

[bobad]

Yes, yeast fermentation produces alcohols in the intestines in minute amounts. Some types of alcohol are pretty poisonous, so it's a good thing it's produced in tiny amounts.

Some yeasts can produce other toxins, which can partially and temporarily paralyze the peristaltic action of the intestines. That's 1 reason this condition is so evil, because your body can't quickly rid itself of the fermented food.

Interestingly, strong alcohol inhibits yeast growth. That's for informational purposes only, I'm not saying to use alcohol. :)

[mandylynn0621]

This is has made me so ill that i have been sick and unable work for 2 years and i am wondering if it has something to do with the fact i had finished 3 rounds of antibiotics? Any tips on how to jump start my system again? It has ruined my life. I am so bloated and belch constantly i can hardly breathe.