Unexplainable Everyone does it. Why can’t I?
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Feb 9, 2026 
Dr. Robert Bastian, a laryngologist who discovered and treats a sphincter disorder that stops burping. Noel King, radio and podcast host who reacts and asks sharp questions. They dig into the anatomy behind the no-burp problem. They discuss Botox as a surprising treatment, how it can act like training wheels, and the puzzling long-term recoveries reported by many patients.
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RCPD Is A Recognized Syndrome
- Retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (RCPD) is a real syndrome where the upper esophageal sphincter fails to relax, preventing burps.
- Dr. Robert Bastian coined the term in 2019 after patients' consistent symptom cluster led to diagnosis.
Misdiagnosis Led To Radical Surgery Suggestions
- Dory Gray endured years of tests and two surgeons who suggested removing her colon before RCPD was recognized.
- She later realized the root issue was likely that she could not burp, not a colon problem.
Why Medicine Missed No-Burp Syndrome
- RCPD sits between ENT and GI specialties so it became an 'orphan' area that many doctors missed.
- Patients often self-diagnose accurately online while extensive tests return no diagnosis.