Aerogastric Disorders (AD) &
Regurgitation associated with BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) result from Negative Airway Pressure (NAP)

NAP= accumulation of air in the gi tract, leading to discomfort, bloating, & other symptoms.

Regurgitation= passive expulsion of food/liquid from the esophagus, often shortly after eating/drinking.

Common AD include:

1. Aerophagia (Air Swallowing) due to short nasal passages & breathing difficulties associated with BOAS. Excessive air intake while eating, drinking, or breathing leads to gas accumulation in the gi tract.

2. Flatulence- Trapped air in the gi tract leads to excessive flatulence. This is uncomfortable & is a sign of digestive disturbances. Diet plays a role & foods that are difficult to digest or cause gut fermentation exacerbate the problem.

3. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas & twists on itself, cutting off blood flow. Symptoms include severe abdominal distension, restlessness, drooling, & unsuccessful vomiting.

4. Esophagitis- inflammation of esophagus due to frequent regurgitation & the acid that may accompany it. This complicates the swallowing process & causes discomfort.

AD are due to:

1. Anatomy- a short esophagus leads to difficulty in swallowing & increased chances of regurgitation.

2. Megaesophagus- the esophagus is enlarged & lacks the muscular tone needed to move food to the stomach, causing frequent regurgitation.

3. Hiatal Hernia- part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, which leads to regurgitation.

4. Dietary Factors- Eating too quickly or consuming foods that are difficult to digest.

5. Stenotic Nares- Narrow nostrils make it hard to breathe through the nose, leading to mouth breathing & regurgitation due to swallowed air.

6. Elongated Soft Palate- partially blocks the mouth & airway causing difficulty in breathing, which worsens regurgitation.

7. Laryngeal Collapse- The larynx (voice box) becomes weakened & collapses, obstructing the airway.

8. Hypoplastic Trachea (windpipe) is smaller than normal, making breathing more difficult