Understanding Rumination Disorder: Key Insights and Approaches
By We Level Up | Author Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA | Editorial Policy | Research Policy
Rumination disorder is a type of eating disorder where you repeatedly and unintentionally bring up food from your stomach, re-chew it, and either swallow it again or spit it out. It’s not the same as throwing up on purpose, like with bulimia. Instead, it’s an uncontrollable reflex that can be frustrating and embarrassing.
While it can be challenging to manage, there are treatments available that can help you cope with symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Key Takeaways
- Rumination disorder is characterized by the involuntary regurgitation and re-chewing of food, which can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and dental problems.
- Rumination disorder can significantly impact emotional well-being, social interactions, and physical health, making it essential to seek support from loved ones and mental health professionals.
- With proper treatment, consistency, it is possible to overcome rumination disorder.
Symptoms of Rumination Disorder
The main symptom of rumination disorder is regurgitation of undigested food shortly after eating. The food comes back up easily without retching or nausea. You may re-chew and re-swallow the regurgitated food or spit it out for up to 2 hours after eating.
It can sometimes cause bad breath and nausea. Malnutrition is also possible if you spit the food out, and the repeated exposure to stomach acid can cause erosion of your esophagus and your tooth enamel.
Causes of Rumination Disorder
We don’t know exactly why people get rumination disorder. But research suggests that a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors may all contribute.
Biological factors
Some biological factors increase your risk for rumination disorder. One example is a rectal evacuation disorder.
Psychological factors
Stress, anxiety, and depression are common in people living with rumination disorder and may trigger the onset of symptoms or worsen existing symptoms. In some cases, rumination disorder may develop as a coping mechanism.
People with a history of eating disorders or other mental health conditions may be at a higher risk of developing rumination disorder.
Environmental factors
Sometimes, rumination disorder may develop after a severe illness, surgery, or traumatic experience. In other cases, learned behavior from family members or peers with the disorder may influence the development of rumination disorder in others.
Treatment Options
Treatment for rumination disorder can include behavioral therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy is a key component of treating rumination disorder. The most commonly used approach is diaphragmatic breathing. With this technique, you take deep breaths from your diaphragm to relax your body and reduce the likelihood of regurgitation.
This approach is part of habit reversal training, which identifies the physical sensations and behaviors that precede regurgitation and replaces them with alternative actions. Some people may also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy.
Medication
While there are no specific medications for rumination disorder, your healthcare provider may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help with other mental health conditions that can contribute to the disorder. Some medications may also be used to improve gut motility, such as metoclopramide or domperidone.
Lifestyle Changes
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help manage rumination disorder:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to reduce stomach discomfort and fullness.
- Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to improve digestion.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating to prevent regurgitation.
- Engage in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to reduce stress and anxiety.
Support Groups
Many people living with rumination disorder may get a lot of benefit from joining a support group. That can help you learn from others going through a similar experience
Impact on Quality of Life
Rumination disorder can significantly affect your quality of life. It’s important to understand the emotional, social, and physical effects of this condition.
Living with rumination disorder can be emotionally challenging. Many people feel embarrassed or ashamed, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. You might worry about others judging you or finding out about your condition.
Rumination disorder may cause you to avoid eating in public or social situations. Eventually, this can lead to social isolation and difficulty maintaining relationships. You might miss out on important events or opportunities because of your condition.
Regurgitating food can lead to malnutrition and dehydration, weight loss, fatigue, and vitamin deficiencies. The acid from regurgitated food can damage your teeth and cause bad breath.
Chronic regurgitation can also irritate your esophagus and increase your risk of developing other gastrointestinal issues.
Prognosis for Affected Individuals
With proper treatment and support, many people can manage their symptoms effectively and lead fulfilling lives.
Early intervention is critical, and working closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan is also important.
Consistency and commitment to treatment are essential for success. Behavioral therapies require practice, for example. But eventually they can become second nature.
Remember, progress may be gradual, and setbacks can occur. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way.
Personal Accounts
Hearing from others who have faced similar challenges can provide comfort and hope. These personal stories shed light on the realities of living with rumination disorder.
Preventative Measures
One of the most important things you can do to prevent struggling with rumination disorder is to be aware of it. Misdiagnosis is common and early treatment can help you get back on the path to wellness sooner.
Resources for Support
Online Communities
Connecting with others who understand your experiences can be incredibly helpful. Online support groups can help you find a safe space to support, and be supported by, others with similar challenges. You can find a directory of support groups on the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) website.
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations, like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED), can help you get more informed about rumination disorder. They also have directories of qualified healthcare professionals..
Educational Materials
Learning more about rumination disorder can empower you to take an active role in your recovery. Websites like MedlinePlus offer comprehensive information in a format that is easy to read. You may also find books and articles written by experts to be helpful in your journey.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have rumination disorder, get help as soon as possible. We Level Up offers comprehensive treatment services. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of rumination disorder?
Rumination disorder is characterized by the repeated regurgitation of food shortly after eating. Regurgitation is typically effortless and not accompanied by nausea or disgust. Other symptoms can include weight loss, bad breath, stomach aches, and tooth decay.
What is the main treatment of rumination disorder?
Diaphragmatic breathing techniques are the main treatment. This approach teaches people to recognize the urge to regurgitate and respond by contracting their diaphragm instead. Other treatments sometimes used include medication, CBT, and lifestyle changes.
What is rumination eating disorder?
Rumination eating disorder, also known as rumination syndrome, is a condition where someone repeatedly and involuntarily regurgitates undigested or partially digested food shortly after eating. Unlike other eating disorders, it’s not associated with intentional purging or body image issues.
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