Overview
Rumination syndrome is a condition where people repeatedly and unintentionally spit up undigested or partially digested food from the stomach, rechew it, and either reswallow it or spit it out. It usually happens soon after eating and occurs at every meal. The food tastes normal and isn't acidic due to its undigested state. Treatment may involve behavioral therapy or medications, with breathing exercises being the primary behavioral therapy approach.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Rumination syndrome, also known as rumination disorder, is a condition where an individual regurgitates food from their stomach and rechews it. Symptoms of rumination syndrome may include:
- Regurgitation of food: The primary symptom is the repeated regurgitation of food, often within an hour after eating.
- Difficulty swallowing: People with rumination syndrome may experience difficulty swallowing, leading to food remaining in the mouth or being rechewed.
- Belching and burping: Excessive belching and burping may occur after regurgitation, as the stomach tries to expel the undigested food.
- Signs of discomfort: Individuals with rumination syndrome may exhibit signs of discomfort, such as irritability, restlessness, or distress.
- Unusual eating positions: People may adopt unusual eating positions, such as leaning over the plate or sitting upright, to facilitate the regurgitation process.
- Weight loss or poor growth: In some cases, rumination syndrome can lead to weight loss or poor growth due to the regurgitation of nutritious food. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan if you suspect rumination syndrome or any other medical condition.
Development
It is important to note that the development of psychiatric disorders is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. For example, depression is associated with Huntington's disease due to brain injury and subsequent changes in brain function. In the case of personality disorders, early life experiences and genetic factors contribute to the development of these conditions. Substantial research and understanding of the development of psychiatric disorders is ongoing.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Diagnosis
How to diagnose rumination syndrome? The doctor typically diagnoses rumination syndrome by asking about current symptoms and medical history, and sometimes by observing behavior. High-resolution esophageal manometry and impedance measurement may be used to confirm the diagnosis, as they can show increased pressure in the abdomen and provide an image for use in behavioral therapy. Other tests, such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy, may be used to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of rumination syndrome include:
- Damage to the esophagus: Untreated rumination syndrome can cause damage to the tube between the mouth and stomach.
- Unhealthy weight loss: Persistent regurgitation can lead to a decrease in appetite, resulting in unhealthy weight loss.
- Malnutrition: Repeated regurgitation may result in insufficient nutrient intake, leading to malnutrition over time.
- Dental erosion: Frequent regurgitation can expose teeth to stomach acid, causing dental erosion.
- Bad breath: The regurgitated, undigested food can cause bad breath.
- Embarrassment: The repeated act of regurgitating food can be embarrassing and may lead to social isolation.
- Poor coordination of pelvic floor muscles: Rumination syndrome can be associated with a rectal evacuation disorder, which may result in chronic constipation. These complications can vary in severity depending on the individual and the persistence of the rumination syndrome. It's important to consult a doctor if you or your child persistently regurgitate food.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for rumination syndrome, you should:
- Make a list of your symptoms, including those that may seem unrelated to the condition, and note when they began.
- Gather key personal information, such as major stresses, recent life changes, and family medical history.
- List all medications, vitamins, supplements, and their dosages that you or your child take.
- Compile a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider, such as the cause of the symptoms, whether any tests are needed, and the recommended treatment options.
- Consider bringing a family member or friend to the appointment for support and to help remember the information provided. Remember to be open and honest with your doctor about your concerns and symptoms. This information will help them provide the best possible care and treatment for your rumination syndrome.