Jade Thirlwall shared on TikTok that she suffers from a rare medical condition.
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Jade Thirlwall Said a Post Made Her Feel "Seen"
TikTok user Gemma Renwick posted a video about retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (R-CPD), also known as no burp syndrome. In the comments, the British pop star shared that she suffers from the unusual condition.
"Omg I finally feel so seen and understood," wrote Thirlwall. "It's always been a fun fact that I can't burp... It's caused issues my whole life and I'm so sick of people commenting on my body onstage when I'm just bloated af."
Cleveland Clinic says people with R-CPD can't burp or belch. There aren't many statistics about how many people have the condition. However, thanks to social media, more people are seeking treatment.
"When you can't burp, air builds up in your esophagus and stomach," explains gastroenterologist Dr. Alison Schneider. "That can cause symptoms like chest pain, farting more than usual and a swollen abdomen."
In addition to these symptoms, people with the condition may feel self-conscious about being around others, which can lead to social anxiety.
Renwick says throat Botox has been the "main treatment" for R-CPD. After an injection in the throat area, she says most patients are able to burp and experience significant symptom relief within a week after a single injection.
Thirlwall said she wants to undergo the treatment, but she is concerned it will affect her vocals.
Thirlwall Is Helping to Raise Awareness of R-CPD
Thirlwall shared another clip by Renwick posted last week. In it, she pleads with users to sign a petition to help raise awareness of R-CPD and to have the United Kingdom review NHS treatment access for the condition.
"We believe too many sufferers are dismissed or misdiagnosed before paying privately for treatment," it reads. "Patients deserve better awareness and NHS access to care."
At the moment, the petition has nearly 5,000 signatures. The government will respond to it when it reaches 10,000. If 100,000 people sign, Parliament will consider it for debate.
