Behavioral Treatment of Chronic Belching Due to Aerophagia in a Normal Adult
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-2006
Abstract
Aerophagia, or excessive air swallowing, is a potential cause of belching, flatulence, bloating, and abdominal pain and may contribute to a worsening of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. A limited number of published reports of aerophagia treatment indicate that behavioral methods may be of benefit. A case report is presented describing the behavioral treatment of chronic belching due to aerophagia in an adult female. The collaborative application of single-participant design research helped identify open-mouth, diaphragmatic breathing and minimized swallowing as an effective intervention. Belching frequency was reduced from an average rate of 18 per 5-min interval during the baseline period to 3 per 5-min period after treatment. Results were maintained at an 18-month follow-up. Recommendations for the use of a brief treatment protocol with adults referred for chronic belching or other GI complaints attributed to aerophagia are discussed.
Repository Citation
Cigrang, J. A.,
Hunter, C. M.,
& Peterson, A. L.
(2006). Behavioral Treatment of Chronic Belching Due to Aerophagia in a Normal Adult. Behavior Modification, 30 (3), 341-351.
https://corescholar.libraries.wright.edu/sopp/42
DOI
10.1177/0145445504264746
