Rumination Disorder

Rumination Disorder involves the repeated regurgitation of food after eating, which may be re-chewed, re-swallowed, or spit out. This behavior is not due to a medical condition and occurs in the absence of nausea or disgust. It can occur in infants, children, adolescents, and adults. Without treatment, it can lead to malnutrition and weight loss. Behavioral therapy is the primary treatment approach.

⚠️Symptoms

• Repeated regurgitation of food for at least one month
• Food may be re-chewed, re-swallowed, or spit out
• Not due to a gastrointestinal condition

🔍Causes

• Learned behavior
• Stress or emotional distress
• May occur in individuals with intellectual disabilities

💊Treatment Options

• Behavioral therapy (habit reversal, diaphragmatic breathing)
• Biofeedback
• Address underlying emotional issues