DEFINITION
- Rumination Syndrome is also known as Rumination Disorder or Merycism . Is a rare and often misunderstood gastrointestinal disorder .
- Characterized by the effortless regurgitation of recently ingested food into the mouth , followed by either rechewing and reswallowing or spitting it out.
- Unlike vomiting which involves the forceful expulsion of stomach contents , rumination is typically voluntary and occurs within minutes of eating.
CAUSES OF RUMINATION SYNDROME
Some factors include:
- Learned behavior : Rumination syndrome is often considered a learned behavior , where individuals involuntarily and habitually regurgitate recently ingested food.
- Psychological Factors : Such as anxiety , depression or other emotional stress play a role in the development or exacerbation of rumination syndrome.
- Gastrointestinal Sensitivity
- Neurological Factors
- Other Medical Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) , eating disorders or intellectual disabilities.
SYMPTOMS OF RUMINATION SYNDROME
- Repetitive Regurgitation
- Rechewing or Reswallowing
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Bad breath
- Tooth decay
- Chapped lip
- COMPLICATIONS
- Malnutrition
- Social Isolation
- Dental erosion
- Dehydration
- Aspiration
- Electrolyte imbalance
- DIAGNOSIS
- Blood test
- Imaging techniques to rule out gastrointestinal disorder.
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
- Gastric emptying test
- High resolution esophageal manometry
TREATMENT
- Behavioral therapy
- Habit reversal therapy
- medications
AYURVEDA MANAGEMENT FOR RUMINATION SYNDROME
In Ayurveda Rumination Syndrome is often associated with an imbalance in the digestive fire or "AGNI".
Treatment typically involves restoring balance to Agni through dietary and lifestyle changes.
Digestive herbs : Herbs like Ginger , Cumin , Fennel and Coriander can help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of Rumination Syndrome.
Natural Herbs
- Triphala
Triphala (amla , bibhitaki and haritaki) is known for its digestive benefits and can help regulate bowel movements.
- Licorice root
Licorice root has been used traditionally to help soothe the digestive tract and reduce symptoms of indigestion.
- Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and help soothe the digestive tract. It can be consumed as a tea or added to food.
- Peppermint
Peppermint tea or oil help relax the muscles of the muscles of the digestive tract and reducing regurgitation.
- Chamomile
Chamomile tea is known for its calming properties and help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Lemon balm
Lemon balm is a calming herb that help reduce stress and anxiety which can be triggers for rumination syndrome.
- Fennel
Fennel seeds are often used to aid digestion and may help reduce symptoms such as bloating and gas.
Ayurvedic diet
Following an Ayurvedic diet that is tailored to your specific dosha (body type) can help improve digestion . This diet typically includes whole foods , plenty of water and avoidance of processed foods.
Lifestyle changes
Managing stress , healthy eating and getting regular exercise can also help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of rumination syndrome.
