Regurgitaatio

Regurgitaatio is a medical and biological term referring to the act of unconscious or voluntary expulsion or return of contents from the digestive tract, often from the stomach or esophagus. The term is commonly used in veterinary medicine, particularly in relation to animals such as birds and small mammals, and can also describe a physiological or pathological process in humans.

In animals, regurgitation is a natural behavior observed in species like birds, where it serves functions such as feeding chicks or cleaning their own plumage. For domesticated animals like cats and rabbits, occasional regurgitation may occur without underlying illness, often due to rapid eating or hair ingestion.

In humans, regurgitation is frequently associated with conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid and contents flow back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and discomfort. It can also occur during certain medical procedures or as a result of neurological disorders that impair the coordination of swallowing and esophageal motility.

The distinction between regurgitation and vomiting is notable; regurgitation generally involves a passive expulsion of undigested material without nausea or retching, whereas vomiting is a more active process often preceded by nausea and retching.

Diagnosis and management depend on the underlying cause. While benign regurgitation may require no treatment, persistent or symptomatic cases should be evaluated to address potential underlying issues such as structural abnormalities, motility disorders, or digestive diseases.

Overall, regurgitation is a widespread phenomenon observed across various species and contexts, with clinical significance varying according to its frequency, associated symptoms, and underlying etiology.