Rumination Syndrome in Children
Digestive issues can be distressing, especially when they affect children. At RWJBarnabas Health, one condition we treat is rumination syndrome, a disorder that causes food to come back up into the mouth shortly after eating. Our compassionate pediatric gastroenterology team is here to help families understand and manage this condition.
What Is Rumination Syndrome?
Rumination syndrome is a disorder of gut-brain interaction that typically affects children. It causes recently ingested food to be regurgitated back into the mouth without nausea or forceful vomiting. The child may then spit out the food or rechew and swallow it. To be diagnosed with rumination syndrome, a child usually exhibits this pattern for at least two months.
Rumination Syndrome Causes
Like other disorders of gut-brain interaction, rumination disorder stems from abnormal functioning of the intestinal nerves and their interaction with the brain.
The body learns to contract the abdominal muscles, squeezing the stomach when it's full. This causes stomach contents to move backward toward the mouth.
Rumination Syndrome Symptoms
The primary symptom of rumination syndrome is effortless regurgitation of food, typically within 30 minutes of eating a meal. Key characteristics include:
- Regurgitation is not preceded by retching or nausea
- The process is usually effortless
- Regurgitation typically does not occur during sleep
- Food may be spit out or rechewed and swallowed
Rumination Syndrome Diagnosis
Diagnosis of rumination syndrome is typically based on clinical history. Our experienced pediatric gastroenterologists will conduct a thorough evaluation of a child and talk with parents of caregivers, listening carefully to the symptoms they describe to determine if they match the criteria for rumination syndrome.
Rumination Syndrome Treatments
At RWJBarnabas Health, we offer specialized behavioral therapy for rumination syndrome. This includes:
- Diaphragmatic breathing techniques. We teach patients how to use proper breathing methods to prevent the abnormal contraction of stomach muscles during and after meals.
- Personalized care plans. Our team works closely with each patient to develop strategies that address their specific needs and circumstances.
Help for Rumination Syndrome
Living with rumination syndrome can be challenging for both children and their families. Don't let rumination syndrome disrupt your child's life. Our expert team at RWJBarnabas Health is here to provide compassionate, effective care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our pediatric gastroenterology specialists.