Burping (eructation) is the body’s natural process for releasing gas, specifically swallowed air or gas produced from digestion, from the upper digestive tract. Although a cold is a respiratory infection, its symptoms often create indirect effects on the digestive system, leading to increased gas release. Understanding this relationship explains why you may experience more burping during a cold.
The Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Aerophagia
Nasal congestion is a primary symptom of a cold, and blocked nasal passages force a change in breathing mechanics. When the nose is obstructed, individuals must resort to breathing through their mouth to take in sufficient air. This shift to mouth breathing is the most significant contributor to increased burping during illness.
Breathing through the mouth, especially when combined with frequent swallowing from a sore throat or excessive saliva, leads to aerophagia, or air swallowing. Each frequent swallow while breathing orally pulls excess air down the esophagus and into the stomach. This swallowed air, primarily nitrogen and oxygen, collects in the stomach, creating pressure that must be relieved through belching. Since a cold forces this behavior almost constantly, the volume of air swallowed and subsequently released increases dramatically.
The Role of Post-Nasal Drip and Mucus Swallowing
The body produces a large amount of mucus during a cold, leading to post-nasal drip where excess secretions run down the back of the throat. This persistent drainage creates a sensation of a lump or tickle, prompting increased swallowing or throat clearing. This increased swallowing frequency, independent of nasal obstruction, also contributes to aerophagia as small pockets of air are inevitably swallowed with the mucus.
The mucus itself can also play a role in mild digestive irritation. While mucus is eventually broken down in the stomach, excessive amounts can sometimes lead to nausea or general stomach upset. This irritation may indirectly influence the natural movement of the gastrointestinal tract, contributing to discomfort relieved by burping.
How Over-the-Counter Medications Influence Digestive Gas
Many people turn to over-the-counter cold and flu remedies, and some medications can chemically influence gas production. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, are commonly used for fever and body aches, but they can irritate the stomach lining. This irritation may alter the natural digestive environment, sometimes leading to digestive upset and gas.
Certain multi-symptom cold preparations contain ingredients classified as anticholinergics, a class of drugs found in some older antihistamines. These compounds block the activity of a neurotransmitter that regulates muscle movement in the gut. By slowing the digestive tract’s natural movements, anticholinergics can cause food to remain in the stomach and intestines longer, resulting in increased gas, bloating, and the urge to burp. Additionally, some liquid cough syrups or lozenges contain non-digestible sweeteners, such as sorbitol, which are fermented by gut bacteria and generate gas.
When Burping During a Cold Indicates a Need for Medical Advice
While increased burping during a cold is usually a harmless side effect of altered breathing and swallowing, persistent or severe symptoms warrant professional medical attention. Simple measures like avoiding carbonated drinks, chewing gum, and eating food slowly can help reduce the amount of air swallowed. Staying hydrated with non-carbonated liquids is also recommended.
You should consult a healthcare provider if the burping is accompanied by “red flag” symptoms that suggest a more significant digestive issue. These symptoms include:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent nausea and vomiting.
- Bloody stools or stools that appear black and tarry.