Swallowed Air

Swallowing air may cause bloating, burping, gas, and abdominal pain. Swallowed air that is not released by burping passes through the digestive tract and is released as gas (flatus).

Babies often swallow air during feeding. It's important to burp your baby during and after feeding to reduce the risk for colic.

Aerophagia is a condition in which large amounts of air are swallowed. It can occur from eating or drinking too quickly, chewing gum, smoking, drinking carbonated drinks, wearing dentures, or using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea. It occurs most often in people who are very anxious or nervous or who have digestive system problems.

The following tips can help you prevent swallowing air.

• Take your time when you eat and drink. You are more likely to swallow air when you rush through meals or eat on the run.
  • Chew your food thoroughly before you swallow.
  • Avoid carbonated (fizzy) drinks, such as soda and beer.
  • Do not drink through a straw.
• Keep calm. Stress and anxiety can cause you to swallow air.
• Do not chew gum.
• Do not smoke or use other tobacco products.
• If you wear dentures, make sure they fit properly. Have them readjusted if you have gained or lost weight.
• If you use a CPAP machine, talk with your doctor about your mask and pressure levels to see if a change is needed.