Rotten smelling burps There are several possible causes of rotten smelling burps. One common cause is the consumption of foods and drinks that contain sulfur-containing compounds, such as garlic, onions, broccoli, cabbage, and beer. These compounds can be broken down by bacteria in the digestive tract, releasing foul-smelling gases that can cause burps to smell bad. Another possible cause of rotten smelling burps is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and burping. The stomach acid can mix with bacteria in the mouth, creating foul-smelling compounds that cause burps to smell bad. In some cases, rotten smelling burps can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as a bacterial or fungal infection of the digestive tract, or a chronic inflammatory condition such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These conditions can cause an overgrowth of bacteria in the digestive tract, leading to the production of foul-smelling gases that cause burps to smell bad. To diagnose the cause of rotten smelling burps, a healthcare provider may perform a physical exam, take a medical history, and order diagnostic tests such as blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies. Treatment for rotten smelling burps depends on the underlying cause. In cases where the cause is dietary, avoiding foods and drinks that contain sulfur-containing compounds may help to reduce the frequency and severity of bad-smelling burps. For individuals with GERD, treatment may include lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and avoiding lying down after eating. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) may also be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production. In cases where rotten smelling burps are caused by an underlying infection or inflammatory condition, treatment may involve antibiotics or other medications to treat the underlying condition. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address underlying structural issues in the digestive tract. * Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can irritate the digestive tract and cause burping * Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly to promote healthy digestion * Avoiding chewing gum and hard candies, which can cause excess swallowing of air For individuals with GERD, treatment may include lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and avoiding lying down after eating. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) may also be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production. In cases where rotten smelling burps are caused by an underlying infection or inflammatory condition, treatment may involve antibiotics or other medications to treat the underlying condition. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address underlying structural issues in the digestive tract.