What causes excessive belching and hiccupping?

Excessive belching

* Swallowing too much air. This can happen when you eat or drink quickly, talk while eating, or chew gum.

* Certain foods and drinks. Some foods and drinks, such as carbonated beverages, spicy foods, and alcohol, can cause belching.

* Gastrointestinal problems. Belching can be a symptom of certain gastrointestinal problems, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

* Pregnancy. Belching is a common symptom of pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.

Excessive hiccupping

* Irritation of the phrenic nerve. The phrenic nerve is the nerve that controls the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. Hiccups occur when the phrenic nerve is irritated, causing the diaphragm to contract involuntarily.

* Certain medical conditions. Hiccups can be a symptom of certain medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

* Medications. Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and steroids, can cause hiccups.

* Alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol can cause hiccups.

* Stress. Stress can also trigger hiccups.

When to see a doctor

Belching and hiccups are usually harmless and will go away on their own. However, you should see a doctor if you have excessive belching or hiccups that:

* Are severe

* Are accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or heartburn

* Do not go away after a few days

* Interfere with your daily activities