Managing Patients with Belching, Bloating, and Distention

The American Gastroenterological Association has published a “Clinical Practice Update” on these common symptoms.

Sponsoring Organization: American Gastroenterological Association (AGA)

Background

Many patients present with belching, bloating, or abdominal distention in primary care and gastroenterology practices. Because high-quality evidence on managing these conditions generally is lacking, the AGA commissioned several experts to issue “best practice advice,” which reflects both a literature review and consensus opinion of the authors.

Key Points

Highlights of the document's 15 “best practice advice” statements include the following:

Belching can be categorized as supragastric (from the esophagus) and gastric (from the stomach); these can be distinguished using esophageal manometry and impedance monitoring. Supragastric belching is often associated with …

Reviewing Author

Allan S. Brett, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose