A doctor has gone viral on TikTok revealing a bizarre condition called ‘no burp syndrome’ – which has some rather nasty side effects.
The GP, who goes by Dr Sooj online, shared with his followers the unusual condition – also known as retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction – which causes excessive flatulence, gurgling noises from the neck and chest, and, of course, the inability to belch.
The 32-year-old medical professional, from Hertfordshire, racked up 1.9 million views on the TikTok clip, with users flocking to the comments to share their experience of the condition.
In the video, the doctor, who has 58,000 followers on the app, (@doctorsooj), says: “Have you ever wondered what your life would be like if you were unable to burp?
“No burp syndrome is a real thing, and the medical term is retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction – a bit of a mouthful.
“It’s uncommon, probably under-diagnosed, and causes bloating and pressure in the chest, socially awkward gurgling noises, and lots of farting.
“This happens when the cricopharyngeal muscle in the throat is unable to relax and allow gas to pass upwards.
“This condition can be treated with Botox injections into the cricopharyngeal muscle to help it to relax, or by cutting out part of the muscle.”
Users were quick to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments section.
One person said: “I don’t burp and I have weird noises come out my mouth sometimes.”
“I have this too. Never thought it would ever get to being diagnosed until a couple of years ago. Finally!” said another user.
Someone else commented: “I used to have this – when I found out the cause I taught myself how to burp and have now trained that muscle. I can now burp and let the gas out!”
“I had no idea this was an actual thing, I’ve never burped in my life. I thought I was the only one,” said another viewer.
One person said: “I had this for most of my life. Have taught myself to burp over the last year and it’s made such a difference. Now I can’t stop burping.”
“I had this, and treated with Botox. Changed my life!!!” added another user.