Individuals unable to burp endure not only physical discomfort but also emotional distress, including embarrassment, anxiety, and depression, according to research conducted by a team of Texan university academics.
The condition, known as Retrograde Cricopharyngeus Dysfunction (R-CPD) or “no burp syndrome,” manifests as abdominal bloating, socially awkward gurgling noises, and flatulence.
The study highlights that many doctors are unfamiliar with R-CPD, leaving patients underserved and emphasises the necessity for increased awareness and research into the syndrome.
R-CPD occurs when the cricopharyngeal muscle in the throat fails to relax, hindering the passage of gas upwards. Dr. Yakubu Karagama, an ear, nose, and throat consultant, has been treating R-CPD patients with Botox injections since 2016, providing life-changing relief.
However, limited awareness within the health profession means this treatment is currently available only privately.
Dr. Karagama underscores the need for funding for clinical research, as many individuals suffering from R-CPD remain unaware of their condition.
The study, based on a survey of 199 individuals unable to burp, emphasises the mental and social implications of R-CPD, calling for increased understanding to enhance diagnosis, treatment rates, and ultimately improve the quality of life for affected individuals.
The study concludes that addressing the mental health implications of difficult-to-diagnose conditions is essential, advocating for further exploration in this regard.
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