I am a woman of 73 years. Some time ago, according to the doctor, I had an inflammation of the stomach mucosa. I had a lot of problems with belching and a burning sensation behind the sternum. My blood was tested for a stomach bacteria. An X-ray was also taken to see if there might have been a tear in the diaphragm. Nothing came out. After treatment with the gastric acid inhibitor omeprazole, the complaints have decreased considerably, only that annoying belching continues. Hopefully you can tell me what causes this and what I can do about it.
Female, 73 years
Joris Bartstra, journalist with medical diploma
I actually think that you have a small diaphragm fracture, even though it is not clearly visible in the photo. A diaphragmatic rupture occurs when part of the stomach lies above the diaphragm. What is also possible is that the transition between esophagus and stomach slides back and forth over the diaphragm. This can cause acid to enter the esophagus, which is the cause of the burning sensation. It is also possible that air moves in and out of the stomach in this way. It is also possible that because you have the feeling that it is not quite comfortable there, you will take a lot. This way you get a lot of extra air in, so that you maintain the complaint. The only sensible advice I can give you to prevent burping is: try to think about it as little as possible, so that you swallow less and take in less air.
Also a health question? Click here and ask the question to an expert!