Symptoms and Treatment for Infant Acid Reflux

Symptoms and Treatment for Infant Acid Reflux Dr. Travis: Janet is worried about her son’s digestion so what’s happening Janet? Janet: My baby seems to have acid reflux. He’s really uncomfortable during and after feedings and he spits up a lot. I was wondering when it’s time to be more concerned. Dr. Jim: Well Janet, you wanted to be concerned when if your baby isn’t gaining weight, if he spitting up forcefully or if he spitting up a large amount each time or what if the spit up is green or brownish, that’s a sign a of a problem. If your bay is resisting feedings or if he is irritable after feedings but improved when held upright, those are signs to worry. Also if your baby’s having fewer wet diapers than usual or appears lethargic. Now what is infant acid reflux? It’s just like adult acid reflux. It’s basically heart burn but in babies the symptoms usually resolved by themselves by 12 to 18 months. Those symptoms are spitting up, they’re irritable during or after feedings or the baby’s having poor feedings. Then what causes it? Basically, the lower esophageal sphincter which is a muscle that keeps the stomach contents from refluxing back into the esophagus is not mature yet and the baby will feel that heart burn. Or it is also is caused by the baby eating too much or too fast. Does it usually need to be tested for? Usually not, the doctor can usually diagnose it just by physical examine and history but certain tests are usually done to rule out more serious causes like a hernia or other abnormalities. The best treatment usually changes in feeding techniques, avoiding certain foods and medications if it’s severe. There’s a few home remedies too, feeding baby in an upright position, taking the time to burp and raising the head of the crib. All right when to seek medical advice? Basically if you’re worried you should call your doctor if the baby seems to be in pain, isn’t feeding well. Not gaining weight, generally not happy, call the doctor. Dr. Travis: Thank you Janet, good luck.