There are many potential causes of chronic belching in an 84-year-old woman. Some of the most common causes include:
- GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). GERD is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Belching is a common symptom of GERD.
- Hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. This can cause stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and belching.
- Peptic ulcer disease. Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. They can be caused by a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) or by the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Belching is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Belching is a common symptom of IBS.
- Food allergies or intolerances. Some people may experience belching after eating certain foods, such as dairy products, gluten, or caffeine.
- Medication side effects. Some medications, such as antibiotics and steroids, can cause belching as a side effect.
- Psychological factors. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to chronic belching.
If you are experiencing chronic belching, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once any underlying medical conditions have been treated, there are a number of lifestyle changes that can help to reduce belching, such as:
- Eating slowly and chewing your food thoroughly.
- Avoiding carbonated beverages, alcohol, and caffeine.
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese.
- Quitting smoking.
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing around your stomach.
- Elevating the head of your bed by 6-8 inches.
If you have tried these lifestyle changes and you are still experiencing chronic belching, you may need to see a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and treatment.
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