Home remedies work.
They may not completely resolve the problem, but they can improve symptoms and reduce discomfort.
No Burp Syndrome or Retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (R-CPD) is a condition where the upper esophageal sphincter has difficulty relaxing and opening during swallowing. This can make it very difficult and uncomfortable to swallow foods and liquids. While R-CPD often requires evaluation and treatment from medical professionals, there are some home remedies and exercises that can potentially provide symptom relief.
Proper swallowing technique
One of the easiest home treatments for R-CPD is to focus on proper swallowing techniques. Taking small sips of liquid, concentrating on the swallowing motion, tilting the chin down during swallows, and avoiding gulping down food and drink too quickly, can help make swallowing easier. Eating slowly, chewing food thoroughly, and taking small bites can also help.
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Daily Exercises
Doing daily exercises to stretch and relax the cricopharyngeus muscle. One simple exercise is pressing two fingers gently on the outside of the throat while repeatedly swallowing saliva. Moving the fingers up and down while swallowing aims to massage and stretch the muscle. Doing Shaker exercises, which involve lying flat and repeatedly lifting the head off the floor during swallows, can also help strengthen the muscle.
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Staying hydrated
Sipping water frequently throughout the day can help. Proper hydration keeps mucus thin, which can allow food and liquid to pass through the upper esophageal sphincter more easily. Some people with R-CPD find carbonated drinks easier to swallow, as the bubbles appear to help open the sphincter.
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Applying Heat
Applying heat to the throat before meals can help relax the muscles. This can be done with a heated towel or a microwavable neck wrap designed for pain relief. Massaging the throat muscles before and during meals may provide some additional benefit.
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While these at-home treatments may provide some symptom relief, it's important to see a doctor if swallowing difficulties continue or get worse. More aggressive R-CPD treatments like botox injections into the cricopharyngeus muscle or surgery to widen the esophageal opening are sometimes necessary.