Bloating and Burping: Gastrointestinal Symptoms Explained

The stomach is prone to bloating and belching?

My symptoms include a persistent sensation of a foreign body in my throat, although I have no issues swallowing.
However, I often experience a bubbling feeling, similar to the bubbles that frogs produce at the water's edge.
I frequently burp, even after just drinking water upon waking up.
Sometimes I feel the urge to burp, but it feels stuck in my throat and I can't release it.
Eating makes me feel bloated easily, so I hesitate to eat much, yet I often feel hungry and want to eat, which leads to discomfort and pain if I overeat.
Consuming high-fiber foods results in a sour stomach sensation, and the feeling of a foreign body in my throat intensifies, accompanied by a prickly discomfort on my tongue.
Recently, I've noticed an increased production of phlegm in my throat over the past week.
Sometimes upon waking, my throat feels sore, similar to a cold.
Typically, the discomfort in my stomach becomes more pronounced after dinner.
I now sleep on my left side, as it seems to alleviate my stomach discomfort.
Since July of last year, I have undergone several tests, including an upper endoscopy, abdominal ultrasound, pelvic ultrasound, gastric emptying study, blood glucose testing, and a Helicobacter pylori test, all of which did not reveal significant issues.
During the endoscopy, mild inflammation was noted, and there were polyps in the fundus of the stomach, which were determined to be benign.
My doctor mentioned that my ureter is mildly dilated, but no other abnormalities were found.
After visiting an otolaryngologist, the doctor noted some inflammation and swelling of my vocal cords, possibly indicating laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).
My primary care physician initially prescribed Omeprazole, but it had no effect.
After a month, I switched to Pantoprazole, which was effective at first, but after one to two weeks, my symptoms persisted.
I took the medication for over two months before switching to Famotidine, taking it alongside Pantoprazole for four days, which resulted in a bitter taste in my stomach and on my tongue.
The medications caused significant discomfort in my stomach, leading me to stop taking them entirely.
After discontinuing the medication, all symptoms improved to some extent, but they still persist.
I am currently managing my diet by avoiding sweets, coffee, and tea, and I try to limit high-fiber and greasy foods.
I am now concerned that my stomach discomfort may be indicative of issues with other organs manifesting as gastric problems, as I have been on PPI medication for a long time without any improvement in my condition.

Manchester, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/16

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It may be a more challenging case of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Patience is required to adjust the diet in conjunction with medication.
If necessary, special examinations at a medical center may be needed.
However, medication may not always be effective; it simply means that the symptoms will not impact overall health or lifespan.
Please continue to monitor the situation closely.

Reply Date: 2020/05/16

More Info

Your symptoms of throat discomfort, frequent burping, bloating after eating, and the sensation of a lump in your throat can be quite distressing and may indicate a combination of gastrointestinal issues. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), and possibly functional dyspepsia.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Throat Discomfort and Burping: The sensation of a foreign body in the throat, along with frequent burping, could be indicative of LPR, where stomach acid travels up into the throat and larynx. This can cause inflammation and discomfort, leading to symptoms like throat irritation, a feeling of a lump, and increased mucus production.

2. Bloating and Discomfort After Eating: Bloating after meals is often associated with dyspepsia or functional gastrointestinal disorders. It can be exacerbated by certain foods, particularly those high in fiber, fat, or sugar. The discomfort you feel after eating could also be related to delayed gastric emptying, which can occur in conditions like gastroparesis.

3. Medication and Its Effects: You mentioned trying various proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Omeprazole and Pantoprazole, which are commonly prescribed for acid-related disorders. While these medications can be effective for many, they do not work for everyone, and some patients may experience side effects or a rebound effect after discontinuation. The bitter taste and discomfort you experienced could be a side effect of the medication or related to your underlying condition.

4. Dietary Considerations: Your current dietary restrictions are wise, especially avoiding trigger foods like sweets, caffeine, and high-fat items. It’s also important to consider portion sizes and meal timing; smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce bloating and discomfort.

Recommendations for Management
1. Further Evaluation: Since you have undergone several tests with mostly normal results, it may be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist for a more comprehensive evaluation. They may consider additional tests such as esophageal manometry or pH monitoring to assess reflux severity and esophageal function.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Continue to monitor your diet closely. Keeping a food diary can help identify specific triggers. Incorporating low-FODMAP foods may also help reduce bloating and discomfort.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Elevating the head of your bed, avoiding lying down after meals, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage reflux symptoms. Stress management techniques such as mindfulness or yoga may also provide relief.

4. Alternative Therapies: If traditional medications are not effective, you might explore alternative treatments such as herbal remedies or acupuncture, but always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

5. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your symptoms and adjust treatment as necessary. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further investigation may be warranted to rule out other potential issues.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are complex and may stem from multiple overlapping conditions. While it’s understandable to worry about underlying issues, many gastrointestinal disorders can be managed effectively with the right approach. Continue to work closely with your healthcare team to find a treatment plan that works for you. Remember, self-advocacy is crucial in navigating your health concerns, so don’t hesitate to seek further opinions if needed.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Belching and Bloating: Seeking Relief from Gastrointestinal Issues

Hello, for the past month or two, I have been experiencing frequent belching, even when I haven't eaten anything. Sometimes, when I can't burp, my stomach feels bloated. Drinking water or eating a little bit makes me burp immediately, and after eating a full meal, I fee...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
For functional disorders, please adhere to medication and dietary adjustments, maintain a regular routine, and take a walk after meals.

Understanding Bloating, Belching, and Rib Pain: A Teen's Health Journey

Hello, doctor. I am currently a sophomore in high school. Since starting high school, my body has experienced many issues that were not common before. The story begins in May 2020, during the second midterm exams. I suddenly started feeling bloated and often burping, with occasio...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Do not eat late-night snacks before bed, avoid eating too quickly, and do not bend over, lie face down, or lie flat after eating. Try to consume easily digestible foods, and you may consider taking probiotics, which could help improve your condition. If there is still no i...

Understanding Bloating, Burping, and Flatulence: A Gastrointestinal Perspective

Hello Doctor, last April I experienced abdominal bloating and sharp pain in my right abdomen, along with harder stools. The liver transplant doctor suggested that it might be due to the surgery, causing my intestines to be less functional, leading to the abdominal pain. I had a c...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Indeed, gastroesophageal reflux can cause a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, or persistent throat clearing. In severe cases, it can even lead to bronchitis or asthma. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.

Understanding Bloating and Nausea: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues

Hello Doctor, I often experience bloating issues, and I frequently need to burp after meals to feel more comfortable. If I can't burp on my own, I take antacids to help release the gas from my stomach. Recently, over the past month, in addition to the ongoing bloating, I...

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, bloating is generally caused by abnormal gastrointestinal motility, leading to unusual sensations in the stomach. If accompanied by anemia, weight loss, or progressively worsening symptoms, it is advisable to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out the poss...