When I take my sips of water every 5 minutes, after I swallow the water, I have a strange gurgling come back up my throat. It's not the water but just like air. Is this normal?

Looks like you are most likely swallowing air when you drink, I am dealing with the same thing except I get pain as well when j get this air bubble inside. Try taking smaller sips and sit up when you drink. I burp a lot when this happens helps to get rid of that air.

Yes.. completely normal... try to sip it slower... and take smaller sips, let it rest in your mouth and slowly swallow.... this should help ease the trapped air..

Umm, strange new noises will be the new normal. Let the staff know.