Rome IV Diagnostic Criteria for Child Aerophagia
Official Rome IV criteria for the diagnosis of child aerophagia.
Use in a child or adolescent with symptoms suggestive of aerophagia, such as excessive air swallowing, abdominal distension which increases throughout the day, repetitive belching or increased flatus of at least 2 months duration.
If diagnosis not met (negative):
Current symptoms are unlikely to be related to aerophagia. Consider further assessment as clinically indicated. Also, see pearls and pitfalls above.
If meets diagnosis (positive):
Likely diagnosis of aerophagia. Consider initiating treatment.
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Treatment is supportive.
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Providing reassurance.
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Simple behavioral interventions include avoidance of chewing gum, carbonated beverages, sucking on candy or the use of straws. Keeping the mouth open after completing a meal can prevent further air swallowing.
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Psychotherapy and behavioral therapy.
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Benzodiazepines such as Clonazepam can be considered to reduce anxiety, a common trigger of aerophagia.
The choice of therapy is outside the scope of this calculator and will depend on clinical context.
This calculator should only be used in patients who do not have signs or symptoms suggestive of a structural, metabolic or other systemic cause of their symptoms based on clinical history, physical exam, and initial work-up.