The rumination syndrome resembles the behavior of ruminants that regurgitate, rechew then swallow their food
Features of rumination syndrome - all of the following for the last 3 months:
(1) recurrent or persistent regurgitation of recently ingested food into the mouth
(2) the regurgitated food is either rechewed and swallowed or spit out
(3) the regurgitation is not preceded by retching
(4) >= 6 months since the onset of symptoms
Findings that may be present include:
(1) The regurgitated material may contain recognizable food and may have a pleasant taste.
(2) The process stops when the regurgitated material tastes acidic.
(3) Psychological factors (acute stress, bulimia nervosa).
Findings that are typically absent:
(1) nausea
(2) dysphagia
Differential diagnosis:
(1) GERD
(2) achalasia
(3) bulimia nervosa
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Specialty: Gastroenterology
