Belching is rarely a serious problem. Occasionally, it can be treated with medications. In most cases, however, the patient can control belching by understanding how it occurs and following the simple steps listed above. Bloating is usually caused by poor or disorganized contractions of the stomach and upper intestine. Relaxation of the abdominal muscles can also be a factor.
Medications are now available that stimulate contractions in the stomach and upper intestine.
These contractions move the food and fluid along, thereby reducing abdominal bloating. Bloating is often a part of irritable bowel syndrome, a condition in which there is disorganized movement and spasm of the bowel. Anxiety and stress seem to play a role in some people's symptoms. Bloating may also be caused by delayed emptying of the stomach, called gastroparesis. For these reasons, the physician usually performs certain tests such as x- rays and endoscopy.