regurgitations

Regurgitation is the effortless return of undigested food from the stomach or esophagus into the mouth. This process differs from vomiting, which is a forceful expulsion of stomach contents due to nausea or other stimuli. Regurgitation is often a passive event, occurring without any sensation of nausea or abdominal contractions. It can be a symptom of various conditions affecting the digestive system, particularly those related to the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscular valve that prevents stomach contents from flowing back up.

Common causes of regurgitation include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where the lower esophageal sphincter is weakened or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid and food to back up. Hiatal hernias, where a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm, can also contribute to regurgitation by disrupting the normal function of the esophageal sphincter. Certain medical conditions, such as achalasia, a disorder affecting esophageal muscle function, can also lead to regurgitation as food struggles to pass into the stomach. In infants, regurgitation, often referred to as "spitting up," is common due to their immature digestive systems and horizontal feeding positions. While often benign in infants, persistent or excessive regurgitation may warrant medical attention. The consistency of regurgitated material can range from saliva to partially digested food.