Botox is an exceptionally versatile treatment used not only for cosmetic purposes but also for treating or managing certain medical issues—even lesser-known, often-overlooked conditions like the no-burp syndrome.
No-burp syndrome, or retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (RCPD), is a rare but distressing condition in which people cannot orally expel gas, meaning they’re physically incapable of burping or belching, due to the upper cricopharyngeus muscle at their throat’s base being unable to relax.
A procedure called Botox for no-burp syndrome is a standard RCPD treatment, and while it might not be as well-known as the other medical uses of Botox (like Botox for TMJ, hyperhidrosis, or chronic migraines), it’s considered a highly effective approach. Botox injection for RCPD relaxes the tight throat muscle and provides symptom relief through the following mechanisms:
As for the effectiveness of this treatment, Botox for burping has an average success rate of 90–95%. Some clinical studies even report long-term clinical efficacy with a 99% success rate.
If you want to learn more about this unorthodox yet highly effective Botox injection treatment, read on.
When a person swallows, the cricopharyngeus muscle (sphincter muscle) relaxes, allowing food and liquid to pass through the esophagus and into the stomach, then it tightens. The same muscle must relax again to let air or gas out as a burp.
The no-burp syndrome, or retrograde cricopharyngeal dysfunction (R-CPD), is a rare throat condition in which the cricopharyngeus muscle doesn’t relax to allow excess air, such as swallowed air from eating or unreleased gas from drinking carbonated beverages, to exit the stomach and esophagus.
Significant symptoms of no-burp syndrome that can affect your health and overall quality of life include the following:
Aside from medical issues, no-burp syndrome can also lead to increased anxiety in social settings, as it can cause feelings of awkwardness and embarrassment from unwelcome gurgling noises, excessive farting, or having a bloated appearance.
Botox is injected into the cricopharyngeal muscle in the upper esophagus; a single injection relaxes the tight muscle to allow air to escape and relieve symptoms of no-burp syndrome.
In an electromyography or EMG-guided Botox, a licensed injector uses an EMG device to locate the cricopharyngeus muscle, and a tiny needle is inserted into the muscle to inject Botox and relax it. This Botox effect acts like “training wheels” for the sensation of burping until a patient’s body gets used to the experience and ultimately learns how to let out a burp on its own.
An RCPD treatment with minimally invasive botulinum toxin injections is the standard outpatient procedure (no operating rooms or extensive downtime needed) for no-burp syndrome.
For more severe but rare cases, a patient may need to undergo surgery under general anesthesia based on a doctor’s diagnosis, where a surgeon makes an incision or cuts partway through the cricopharyngeus muscle, allowing air to exit.
The good news is that Botox for no-burp syndrome has a high success rate based on clinical trials with conclusive data, where the majority of patients who’ve had Botox injections were able to burp more easily and experienced long-lasting relief, thanks to the prolonged effectiveness of the neurotoxin.
Many experts agree that Botox is a safe, highly effective, and life-changing procedure for RCPD, which is why it’s the primary, recommended treatment for no-burp syndrome.
The Head and Neck Surgery and chief of the Division of Laryngology at Columbia University says that Botox is common for laryngeal disorders, and while Botox for no-burp syndrome may be relatively newer, many patients have found success with this treatment, and the fix is often permanent.
Botox offers benefits and symptom relief from RCPD, such as the following:
Most people suffering from no-burp syndrome can get Botox injections, but it’s important that you consult a trusted provider to determine your eligibility for treatment. You’re an ideal candidate for Botox for RCPD if you:
Botox for no-burp syndrome is a scientifically proven, low-risk treatment—with more benefits than risks. However, like any other medical procedure, it can have minor potential complications as your body first adjusts to the injection.
Here are the common side effects of Botox for no-burp syndrome, which you may experience for the first few weeks posttreatment:
These side effects are normal and typically resolve on their own with proper aftercare—and the relief you’ll get from this procedure makes it worth it. Adverse effects are rare and avoidable.
Botox is a highly versatile injectable that goes beyond cosmetic uses to offer medical benefits that improve your overall quality of life. Many patients experience real, often permanent relief from their RCPD, thanks to Botox injections, all without the extensive downtime or complications of surgery.
For comprehensive care unlike any other, book a free virtual consultation at InjectCo today. We provide tailored solutions to your individual needs and guarantee a safe, effective treatment performed by compassionate, licensed professionals.
Yes, Botox helps with your inability to burp; the injection relaxes the cricopharyngeus muscle and releases the trapped air that has been causing bloating, excessive flatulence, and abdominal discomfort. Botox is the standard treatment for no-burp syndrome and has a 90–95% success rate, with most patients finding their RCPD permanently fixed after just a single injection.
Botox for RCPD typically lasts around 3 to 4 months, though symptom relief can last for up to 12 months or even longer. About 80% of patients who’ve gotten Botox injections for their no-burp syndrome report long-term efficacy and relief, as its effects are thought to be permanent.
You can explore professional Botox treatments for medical conditions such as TMJ, hyperhidrosis, and migraine at InjectCo. Our nurse-owned, physician-led med spa features master nurse injectors who specialize in FDA-approved injectables. Our safe, medically supervised treatment is designed to provide relief from your condition without surgery.
You can book a consultation to discuss medical Botox injections by simply filling out a short form on our website or by calling us. We offer same-day appointments, as well as online and in-person consultations to discuss medical Botox treatments.
Contact us today, and book a free virtual consultation for a personalized solution to your aesthetic goals and needs.
