No Foolin' - Kids Get Acid Reflux Too

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Does your baby or toddler have acid reflux?

Acid reflux disease is common in infants and children - and commonly overlooked. But as a serious medical condition, it's a very big deal. How can you tell whether your baby has this serious and sometimes painful condition? Not all babies show symptoms of pain, but the most common symptom is vomiting or "spitting up.P

More than half of all babies will spit up during the first 3 months after birth, simply because the muscles of the esophagus haven't fully matured. (No surprises here!)

Most will outgrow it by their first birthday, and even most infants with acid reflux are healthy and thrive.

As long as your baby is gaining weight and is happy and sleeping well, there's no need for alarm.

But if your child is still spitting up a lot after that first special birthday, and especially if she seems to be in pain, suspect acid reflux and see the doctor right away.

Babies can't tell you where it hurts 

If your baby is one of those who's obviously in a lot of pain, it's heartrending that he can't tell you where it hurts.

Luckily, sharp-eyed moms and dads can learn quite a bit just by watching for behavioral tip-offs.

Babies and toddlers with acid reflux may be irritable or colicky; may vomit often, or may have a chronic cough or laryngitis. Or, you might see respiratory symptoms like wheezing, asthma, or pneumonia.

There may be blood in their stools (from acid burning the esophagus). You might also see or feel them arching their little backs at feeding time and while sleeping.

Some babies refuse to eat, and may grow poorly because they can't hold down enough food for normal development.

If you see these symptoms often, make a point of talking with your child's doctor about them soon. Acid reflux, or GERD (for gastro-esophageal reflux disease) is a serious medical problem.

Diagnosing acid reflux in babies and toddlers 

Before your child can be diagnosed with acid reflux your doctor will want to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms, such as milk or food allergies, colic or inflammation of the esophagus. He or she may also want special x-rays, a biopsy and/or other tests to be thorough - and sure.

If your little one does have acid reflux, your doctor may then recommend prescription medications or rarely, surgery.

But what about the pain? 

The problem with getting a final diagnosis is that it takes time. And while grownups understand these things, little children only know that their tummies hurt - a lot.

While you're waiting, there are some things you can do at home to relieve your child's pain. Simple changes like avoiding certain foods, letting a few hours pass between dinnertime and bedtime and raising the head of your child's bed can make a big difference.



My favorite guide for how to help kids with acid reflux is RefluxRescue.info.

(As a parent, I was especially interested in the news that it's often possible to resolve the pain without strong drugs, endoscopy or (shudder) surgery.)

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