Rumination syndrome

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Chronic condition characterized by effortless regurgitation of undigested food

Rumination syndrome
Specialty	Gastroenterology
Symptoms	Effortless regurgitation of undigested food
Complications	Malnutrition, weight loss, dental erosion
Usual onset	Any age, often in infants and children
Duration	Chronic
Causes	Unknown, possibly behavioral or psychological factors
Risk factors	Stress, anxiety, eating disorders
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, exclusion of other conditions
Differential diagnosis	Gastroesophageal reflux disease, bulimia nervosa, gastroparesis
Treatment	Behavioral therapy, biofeedback, dietary modifications
Prognosis	Variable, can be managed with treatment
Frequency	Rare

Rumination syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by the effortless regurgitation of undigested food from the stomach back up into the mouth. This condition can affect individuals of any age, but it is often observed in infants and children. Unlike vomiting, the regurgitation in rumination syndrome is not preceded by nausea or retching.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of rumination syndrome is the repeated regurgitation of food, which may be re-chewed, re-swallowed, or spit out. Other symptoms may include:

• Malnutrition
• Weight loss
• Dental erosion
• Bad breath
• Abdominal pain

Complications

If left untreated, rumination syndrome can lead to several complications, including:

• Severe malnutrition
• Significant weight loss
• Dental erosion due to stomach acid
• Esophagitis
• Social isolation and psychological distress

Causes

The exact cause of rumination syndrome is unknown. However, it is believed to be associated with behavioral or psychological factors. Stress, anxiety, and eating disorders may contribute to the development of this condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of rumination syndrome is primarily based on clinical evaluation and the exclusion of other conditions with similar symptoms, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), bulimia nervosa, and gastroparesis. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Esophageal pH monitoring
• Gastric emptying study
• Upper gastrointestinal series

Treatment

Treatment for rumination syndrome often involves behavioral therapy aimed at changing the regurgitation behavior. Effective treatments may include:

• Biofeedback
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dietary modifications
• Diaphragmatic breathing techniques

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with rumination syndrome varies. With appropriate treatment, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively. However, the condition can be chronic and may require ongoing management.

Related Pages

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Bulimia nervosa
• Gastroparesis
• Eating disorders
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Biofeedback