Acid Reflux Disease in Infants
Adults aren’t the only ones who suffer from acid reflux. Unfortunately this is a condition that affects infants and children. Infants often have the symptoms because of the fact that they are lying down most of the time and consuming liquid and soft foods that tend to be rich in diary proteins. The most unfortunate part of infant acid reflux disease is that, unlike in adults, it is difficult to determine if an infant has developed chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.
As babies take in liquid food, it causes cause regurgitation that’s made worse by the fact that they are laying in a prone position with pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Acid reflux in infants can also be caused by an immature and not properly developed LES, food allergies and poor diet along with a host of other factors.
Because infants can’t complain about specific symptoms or explain how they feel, it may be difficult to determine when an infant is suffering from acid reflux. Of course, as with an adult, the best bet is to call the doctor. But you can be on the look-out for clues that could indicate the presence of acid reflux disease. Some things parents should look out for are:
- Sleeping problems
- Coughing
- Weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Spitting up frequently
- Apnea
- Unusual irritability
- Chest pain
- Sore throat
- Bad breath
- Crying
Acid reflux disease can also cause respiratory problems. Although these symptoms, in and of themselves, don’t always mean your baby is suffering from acid reflux but they sure are a good enough reason to take your child in to be evaluated by the pediatrician.
Of course there are a few things you can do to help your child avoid acid reflux. Simple things like changing the infant’s food, keeping him/her upright for some time especially after eating and looking out for any signs of chest pain, heartburn or other discomfort after eating. This extra attention could head off any serious acid reflux in your baby.
