Rumination Disorder
A feeding disorder involving repeated regurgitation of food after eating, which may be re-chewed, re-swallowed, or spit out.
Overview
Rumination disorder involves repeated regurgitation of food occurring after eating, for at least one month, which is not attributable to a gastrointestinal or other medical condition.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include effortless regurgitation soon after meals, which may be re-chewed, re-swallowed, or spit out, without apparent nausea or distress. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. It may develop as a self-soothing behavior and is more commonly recognized in infants and individuals with developmental disabilities, though it can occur at any age.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Behavioral interventions, including habit-reversal techniques, may help reduce regurgitation behavior.
Living With Rumination Disorder
Medical evaluation is important first to rule out gastrointestinal causes of regurgitation.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Many cases improve with behavioral treatment, particularly when addressed early.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.