At the top of the oesophagus sits a circular muscle ring called the cricopharyngeus. During normal swallowing, this muscle relaxes so food and liquid move downward smoothly.
In RCPD, the muscle fails to relax upward when stomach gas needs to escape. Trapped air causes gurgling, chest pressure, and severe daily abdominal discomfort.
Classic Signs of RCPD
Patients with no-burp syndrome typically experience a combination of daily symptoms that worsen after meals or carbonated drinks.
Inability to Burp
Throat Gurgling
Bloating & Flatulence
A long-standing or lifelong inability to release trapped air upward, regardless of bloating or chest pressure.
Distinctive gurgling noises in the neck and upper chest as trapped gas struggles to pass the tight sphincter.
Progressive abdominal tightness throughout the day as trapped air travels downward through the digestive tract.