Young Woman Finds Relief from ‘No Burp Syndrome’ After Diagnosis
Isabelle Zeidner, a 23-year-old graduate student from Columbia University, recently overcame a perplexing medical condition known as retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (R-CPD), commonly referred to as “no burp syndrome.” After years of experiencing unusual symptoms, including gurgling noises and discomfort during meals, she finally received a diagnosis that changed her life.
At the age of 9 or 10, Zeidner began noticing strange symptoms during cold seasons, including excessive saliva and sounds resembling a toad’s croak. “I just remember that was, like, really weird,” she explained. By the time she reached high school, these symptoms included gurgling sounds when eating certain foods and even during intimate moments, like kissing.
Despite experiencing bloating, heartburn, and vomiting, those around her attributed the issues to acid reflux. It wasn’t until she underwent an endoscopy and a gastric emptying study in college that she began seeking further answers. Both tests came back normal, leading her to consult with Dr. Seth Kaplan, a board-certified otolaryngologist and director of Northwell Health’s Center for Voice and Swallowing Disorders.
Understanding Retrograde Cricopharyngeus Dysfunction
Dr. Kaplan diagnosed Zeidner with R-CPD after a thorough examination and a series of specific questions regarding her symptoms. “I answered those questions, and he’s like, ‘Yep, you definitely have this,’” Zeidner recalled. R-CPD occurs when the cricopharyngeus muscle at the top of the esophagus fails to relax properly, preventing air from escaping during belching and leading to discomfort.
In April 2023, Zeidner received a Botox injection targeting the cricopharyngeus muscle, which provided immediate relief. “The cricopharyngeus muscle acts as a valve, relaxing to allow food to pass into the esophagus and air to escape during belching,” Dr. Kaplan explained. He noted that awareness of R-CPD is increasing, likely due to social media platforms like TikTok, where Zeidner’s video on her condition amassed nearly 19.9 million views.
While the exact cause of R-CPD remains unclear, Dr. Kaplan pointed out that no familial patterns were evident in Zeidner’s case. He stated, “There’s no definitive evidence of genetic or developmental factors predisposing individuals to R-CPD.” Potential contributing factors could include neurological issues or abnormal muscle function, although these remain theoretical.
Symptoms and Treatment Options
Common symptoms of R-CPD include an inability to burp, gurgling or rumbling noises in the throat, abdominal bloating, and chest discomfort. Left untreated, the condition can lead to chronic discomfort and, in severe cases, esophageal perforation. Dr. Kaplan emphasized that while cricopharyngeal myotomy, a surgical procedure to cut the muscle, is an available treatment, he has achieved a success rate of 90% with Botox injections.
Patients typically experience a mild sore throat following the procedure, and some may endure excessive burping for a few weeks. In Zeidner’s case, the results were transformative. “Now, if I drink a seltzer or a soda, it’s definitely made me feel a lot better, a lot less indigestion, bloating. It’s just definitely a lifesaver,” she said.
The Botox treatment usually takes two to three days to take effect, allowing patients to return to enjoying carbonated beverages within a week. Dr. Kaplan explained that while recurrence is possible, repeat injections can effectively manage symptoms.
As Zeidner continues her studies, she hopes her story raises awareness of R-CPD and encourages others to seek help for unexplained symptoms. Her journey highlights the importance of thorough medical evaluations and the potential for innovative treatments to improve quality of life.
