Burping and heartburn all day: what to know

Heartburn is a burning sensation caused when stomach contents move upward and irritate the food pipe. Frequent burping may accompany this because swallowed air and refluxed contents travel back up. Gastritis or a peptic ulcer can cause upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, fullness, or burning, while a hiatus hernia may make reflux easier. Body weight, meal size, alcohol, smoking, certain medicines, and lying down soon after eating can influence symptoms. These symptoms do not identify one cause by themselves, and a clinician may need your history and an examination to separate them. Review the Heartburn symptom guide for related features.

Choose smaller meals and remain upright after eating. Eat slowly, limit foods or drinks that clearly trigger burning, and avoid late meals if symptoms disturb sleep. Raising the head end of the bed may help night-time reflux; extra pillows alone may bend the body and be less useful. Keep a record of timing, meals, medicines, and whether symptoms reach the throat. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether Acid Reflux Medication is suitable, especially if you take other medicines or have a chronic condition. Do not rely on frequent self-treatment without a review.

Book an appointment if heartburn happens repeatedly, lasts through the day, returns after treatment, or affects sleep or swallowing. Seek urgent help for chest pressure, breathlessness, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, or pain spreading to the arm, back, or jaw. Trouble swallowing or food sticking needs prompt medical attention, particularly if it is getting worse.

Could this be reflux, gastritis, a hiatus hernia, or an ulcer? Which medicines might be aggravating it? Do I need an examination or tests, and how long should I try a treatment before follow-up?