Studies reveal that Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), generally called Acid Reflux, is common among children of varying age groups, though acid reflux in children, especially in infants, may be overlooked easily. An estimated 7,000,000 children in the US currently suffer from GER. Children’s immature digestive systems are easy victims to acid reflux and as they grow up (up to one or two years of age), most children naturally come out of the problem. In case the child’s complaints continue, treatment by a pediatrician will be in need.
Nature Of Acid Reflux
In [tag-tec]acid reflux[/tag-tec], stomach contents i.e. food and gastric acid flow back up out of the stomach into the esophagus causing irritation and discomfort. The food coming up may or may not flow out of the child’s mouth. As a result, the child may vomit forcefully or have a wet burp that does not reach the mouth.
Symptoms Of Acid Reflux In Children
Many different symptoms can show in cases of acid reflux in children. The more common symptoms include: pain, irritability, sudden crying, colic, frequent vomiting or just spitting-up; inability to eat despite hunger; poor sleep; emission of wet burp or wet hiccup sounds; bad breath.
Less common symptoms include: difficulty in swallowing, gagging, and/or choking; sore throat and the need for constant eating and drinking to soothe it; poor weight gain, weight loss; hoarse voice; respiratory problems like [tag-self]asthma[/tag-self], bronchitis, noisy breathing, pneumonia etc.; ear infections, sinus infections, excessive salvation, drooling, and peculiar neck arching.
Reflux Condition And Complications In Acid Reflux In Children
In many young [tag-ice]babies[/tag-ice], regurgitation of a little milk, especially when burping after meals, is a common condition. It is not a bog problem until complications appear. Complications show up mostly in form of heartburn and esophagitis. Heartburn is the burning sensation resulting from the flow of acid from stomach into the esophagus. Esophagitis is the reddening and swelling of the esophagus due to acid reflux. It is very painful and can kill appetite. Severe esophagitis also causes bleeding from the inflamed part of the esophagus. Other complications include poor growth, trouble in swallowing, respiratory problems, and melting of tooth enamel leading to tooth decay.
Treatment Of Acid Reflux In Children
Please note, before trying any treatments it is important to consult with your family physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. There are different treatment methods that are used for dealing with [tag-tec]GER[/tag-tec] in children. Most children come out of the reflux situation after they get a year old. Till then, proper positioning and feeding techniques will do to provide relief. Children are to be positioned upright such that gravity does not allow flow of food and acid from the stomach into the esophagus. Frequent burping and avoiding spicy, fatty and acidic foods is also needed in coping with acid reflux in children. A variety of medications are used for treating acid reflux, e.g. antacids, motility medicines, acid suppressors, and acid blockers. In very severe cases of reflux, surgery is performed.
However, probably the most often-suggested cures and solutions for acid reflux if you child is an infant, is to take care of the child’s emotional needs. Soothing your child and taking care of your child’s emotional needs first and foremost, as this will be the part most damaged by the symptoms of acid reflux in infants. It is a trying time, both as a parent and as a child, to deal with this pain and to help solve the problems that come with it.
What are common symptoms of acid reflux in children?
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Common symptoms include pain, irritability, sudden crying, frequent vomiting or spitting up, inability to eat despite hunger, poor sleep, wet burp or wet hiccup sounds, and bad breath. Less common signs include difficulty swallowing, sore throat, poor weight gain, hoarse voice, and ear or sinus infections. If your child shows several of these together, it is worth discussing with your pediatrician.
Is acid reflux common in infants and toddlers?
Yes. Studies suggest that around 7 million children in the US experience gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Infants are especially prone because their digestive systems are still maturing, and most naturally grow out of the problem by age one or two. Until then, proper positioning and feeding adjustments can make a significant difference in their comfort.
What complications can acid reflux cause in children?
If left unmanaged, acid reflux can lead to heartburn, esophagitis (reddening and swelling of the esophagus that can cause pain and reduce appetite), breathing problems like asthma or pneumonia, difficulty swallowing, poor growth, and even tooth enamel erosion. Severe esophagitis can also cause bleeding. Consulting a pediatrician early helps prevent these complications from developing.
How is acid reflux treated in children?
Treatment depends on the severity. For most infants, upright positioning after feedings, frequent burping, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods provide enough relief. When symptoms persist, a pediatrician may recommend antacids, motility medicines, acid suppressors, or acid blockers. In very severe cases, surgery is considered. It is important to get a proper diagnosis from a doctor before starting any treatment.
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