Not being able to burp can happen when air gets trapped and cannot come back up through the esophagus. One possible reason is that the muscle at the top of the esophagus does not relax the way it should, which can keep gas from escaping and lead to discomfort.
When this happens, the trapped air may cause bloating, pressure in the chest or upper belly, throat gurgling, and extra gas. This helps explain why some people do not burp even though they feel full of air. In this situation, the problem is not always too much gas being made, but trouble releasing it upward.
Symptoms may be more noticeable after meals or fizzy drinks, since more air can build up in the digestive tract. If the problem keeps happening, causes pain, or comes with trouble swallowing, it should be checked by a doctor.
A gastroenterologist or an ENT specialist is usually the most appropriate doctor to evaluate this complaint. Self-medication is not recommended, especially with frequent symptoms, because proper treatment depends on the cause.