Rumination occurs in both males and females. A male predominance has been reported by 1 case series, although this finding may not be definitive. Rumination often remits spontaneously. Rumination among adolescents and adults of normal intelligence is gaining increased recognition. Regurgitation typically begins within minutes of a meal and may last for several hours.
Regurgitation occurs almost every day following most meals.
Regurgitation generally is described as effortless and rarely is associated with forceful abdominal contractions or retching. These theories range from psychosocial factors to organic origins. Cultural, socioeconomic, organic, and psychodynamic factors have been implicated. Onset and maintenance of rumination also has been associated with boredom, lack of occupation, chronic familial disharmony, and maternal psychopathology. Although occurrences in families have been reported, no genetic association has been established.