Causes of excess gas and belching

Eating quickly, chewing gum, drinking through a straw or talking while eating can increase swallowed air. Acid reflux and a hiatus hernia may bring air or stomach contents back towards the throat. Gastritis, including irritation associated with Helicobacter pylori infection, can cause upper abdominal discomfort with belching. Irritable bowel syndrome may link gas with bloating, abdominal pain or changing bowel habits. Fizzy drinks and individual food triggers can add gas, but persistent symptoms should not be explained by diet alone without assessment.

Eat slowly, take smaller mouthfuls, reduce fizzy drinks and avoid gum or straws for a trial period. Keep a food and symptom diary rather than removing many foods at once. Gentle movement after meals may help. If reflux symptoms occur, avoid lying down soon after eating and ask a pharmacist or clinician whether acid reflux medication is suitable.

Arrange medical advice for persistent or worsening gas, unexplained weight loss, repeated vomiting, difficulty swallowing, black stools, blood in vomit, fever or ongoing abdominal pain. Seek urgent help for severe sudden pain, a rigid swollen abdomen, chest pain or breathing difficulty.

Ask whether reflux, gastritis, Helicobacter pylori infection, hiatus hernia or irritable bowel syndrome fits the pattern; whether testing is needed; and which treatment is safe for you.