Aerophagia is when you swallow air and it can lead to burping and gas.There are a lot of reasons that you might accidentally swallow air.One of the most common factors that can cause you to swallow air is the way that you eat or drink.A few changes to your lifestyle will allow you to stop swallowing air and reduce burping and gas.
Step 1: Drink and eat at the same time.
One way to keep yourself from swallowing air is to eat slowly.Take 3 to 5 seconds with each bite and space out your sips.Stress can cause you to eat food too quickly.You can keep air out when you swallow by chewing your food.If possible, don't use straws.They can pull air up with you, and make you drink faster than you should.
Step 2: Don't drink from carbonation.
Carbon dioxide is a major component of air.It will be like drinking a lot of air at once.One of the most important steps you can take is to avoid burping.Beer and sparkling wine are major culprits for aerophagia.
Step 3: Do not chew gum.
You swallow air when you chew gum.If you open your mouth while chewing gum, it's easy to get air into your stomach and esophagus.Fruit leathers or caramel will cause you to swallow air as well.
Step 4: Don't talk while you are chewing.
When you swallow, you will get air into your mouth that will go to your stomach.Don't open your mouth as you eat, finish each bite before you speak.Wait until you have finished chewing before responding to a question.
Step 5: Smoking should be stopped.
Along with all of the other health benefits associated with quitting tobacco, you can prevent yourself from swallowing air by avoiding smoking altogether.Air will enter your stomach and esophagus when you inhale smoke or vapor from a cigarette or vaping device.Smoking products other than tobacco can make you swallow air.The substance that causes aerophagia is the smoking mechanic.
Step 6: To stop hyperventilating, take deep breaths.
To avoid accidentally swallowing air, if you tend to hyperventilate, take steps to slow your breathing.If you want to have more control over the size and duration of your breaths, you need to breathe from your diaphragm.Hyperventilation can be prevented by exercising more frequently and breathing through your nose.
Step 7: If you use a machine, adjust it.
Hyperventilation can occur if the pressure is too high or too low.It's possible that you need a mouth breathing apparatus instead of the standard nose one.Ask your doctor if it's possible to lower the pressure.
Step 8: If you wear dentures, make sure they are a good fit.
If your dentures don't fit right, adjust them.Air can enter your mouth if there are gaps in your teeth.If you have had a sudden weight change, you may need a new size.