Published on: 5/21/2025
What is the medical term eructation commonly used to describe?
Eructation is the medical term for belching, which is the release of gas from the stomach through the mouth.
Explanation
Eructation, commonly known as belching, is the act of releasing gas from the stomach through the mouth. This is a normal bodily function that helps to relieve the stomach of excess gas.
How Eructation Works
- Physiology: The process of eructation involves the movement of gas up from the stomach, passing through the esophagus, and exiting through the mouth. It is a natural way for the body to expel swallowed air or gas produced during digestion.
Causes of Eructation
- Normal Function: In most cases, eructation is simply a result of swallowing air while eating or drinking.
- Digestive Disorders: Sometimes, frequent belching can be a symptom of digestive issues such as dyspepsia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Understanding eructation can help differentiate between normal bodily functions and potential digestive issues. If belching is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be helpful to consult with a healthcare provider to explore underlying causes.
(References)
- Lang IM. (2016). The Physiology of Eructation. Dysphagia, 26694063.
- Lin M, & Triadafilopoulos G. (2003). Belching: dyspepsia or gastroesophageal reflux disease?. The American journal of gastroenterology, 14572558.
- Ryu HS, Choi SC, & Lee JS. (2014). [Belching (eructation)]. The Korean journal of gastroenterology = Taehan Sohwagi Hakhoe chi, 25073665.
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