Pectus Excavatum Burping & Hiccups [2024]: Diet, Digestion

Frequent burping and hiccups are some of the few annoying problems due to pectus excavatum. This can be frustrating, leaving an unpleasant impression when you least expect it.

Such tendencies are frequently uncontrollable. Because this can be frequent, I decided to write this blog post and try to help people with sunken chests how to deal with this annoying problem.

Common Problem

I've heard comments from people on various forums about pectus excavatum, who noticed this problem frequently. They are convinced that it is caused by their chest deformity, which I believe is correct.

I've also found that this happens to me rather frequently.

Still, it occurs in different situations, and it can be hard to identify what is causing the issue. Unfortunately, there isn't scientific research on whether burping and hiccups are caused by pectus excavatum.

Digestive System Health

In addition to the usual difficulties associated with heart and lung capacity, this chest deformity can also affect the digestive system, including the stomach.

A proper examination, such as an abdominal computed CT, can indicate a malformation in the chest wall and show possible compression in the stomach.

Postoperative Burping & Hiccups

Many patients associate the problem of burps and hiccups with the postoperative phase or the period of recovery following the Nuss surgery.

It's critical to avoid any problems after the Nuss procedure, such as those involving the heart, lungs, or gastrointestinal system, which can cause hiccups and burps.

Walking Helps

It is necessary to be careful during the postoperative period and follow the surgeon's instructions while maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.

Doctors will tell you that you must do gentle exercises and, most importantly, walk. Walking daily enhances stomach function, lowering the risk of constipation or other digestion obstacles.

Diet

A healthy diet is essential, both before and after the operation. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet will heal your gut. Burping can disappear as a result. Eating various healthy meals will give you the nutrients you need to recover.

Our bodies require healthy and nutritious foods to function correctly. Offer yourself a meal from each food category that you enjoy the most.

Postoperative Nutrition Tips

Some patients eat less than usual during the first two or three weeks after surgery. Eat smaller portions daily until your appetite returns to normal, and don't force it!

Ensure you eat something every time you take a pain reliever to reduce stomach irritation from medications. That might help prevent opioid adverse effects, including diarrhea and stomach problems.

These digestive issues, such as hiccups, burping, or even throwing up, may be caused by medications. Do not be concerned about the probable side effects of the tablets; your doctor will probably inform you about them.

However, if you realize that you have those digestive issues, see a doctor immediately, so you don't have to torture yourself. Maybe only by changing your medicament will those issues fade away.

Burping Difficulties

Some patients have also observed burping difficulties. They can't ease the feeling of bloating in their belly and associate these issues with their chest deformity.

Experiences vary, but it is difficult to conclude on our own because there is a shortage of resources and information on this topic on the Internet.

Simultaneously, no specialized study undertakes these topics to fully explain the relationship between these few difficulties and the pectus excavatum.

So, people have to construct their opinions only from their experience and find a relation with the chest abnormality.

I believe that listening to others' experiences and stories is crucial because people reveal experiences that might help the pectus community.

Bottom Line

Frequent hiccuping and burping can be uncomfortable, especially post-Nuss surgery for pectus excavatum.

This is not dangerous and will probably go away once you stop taking the pain medications, as many people who underwent surgery for their sunken chest experienced.

In addition, knowing your own body is very important. Knowing what is good for your body and what makes it feel uncomfortable is crucial, especially for digestive issues.

However, in most cases, that can take a while. You must consider if a specific diet/food/medication or even a particular physical activity may lead you to have such a condition. I recommend you observe yourself daily.

There are a lot of natural medicines, teas, and probiotics for these problems that can aid digestion. You may experiment with them to discover the one that works best for you.

However, the source of these health inconveniences is most likely a digestive issue and the digestive tract itself. In this sense, I would still advise you to see a doctor.

It doesn’t have to be a huge issue; it only bothers you regularly. By seeking medical help, you may find a proper remedy.

Thank you for reading!