Welcome to Pediatric Heroes and Families Primary Care Clinic’s blog! Today, we’re delving into an issue that many parents and caregivers face with their little ones — acid reflux. Understanding this condition can help you navigate its challenges and ensure your child’s comfort and health.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents, including acid, flow back up into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. This can cause discomfort, and in infants and young children, it’s often due to their digestive system’s immaturity. While it can be concerning to see your child in distress, the good news is that for most infants, acid reflux is a normal, temporary, and treatable condition.
Identifying acid reflux in infants and children can be tricky since they can’t communicate their discomfort as older children or adults can. Here are common symptoms to watch out for:
—Frequent spitting up or vomiting, especially after meals
—Irritability or crying more than usual, especially after feeding
—Difficulty swallowing, gagging, or choking during feeds
—Poor feeding or refusal to eat
—Weight loss or poor weight gain
—Chronic cough, wheezing, or difficulty breathing
—Arching the back during or after feeding
—Sleep disturbances
In infants, acid reflux is primarily due to a still-developing lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle ring at the bottom of the esophagus that controls the flow between the esophagus and stomach. Factors that might increase the risk of acid reflux in children include obesity, certain medications, and diets high in acidic, fatty, or spicy foods. Premature babies and those with neurodevelopmental disorders like cerebral palsy are also at higher risk.
If your child shows signs of acid reflux, our pediatricians can help with diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis may involve a medical history review, physical examination, and, in some cases, further tests like an upper GI series, pH probe, or endoscopy.
Treatment typically focuses on lifestyle and dietary changes, such as:
—Feeding smaller, more frequent meals
—Keeping your infant upright during and after feeds
—Changing bottle or breastfeeding techniques
—For older children, avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and heal any esophageal irritation. Surgery is considered only in severe cases where non-invasive treatments have not been effective.
Here are some practical tips for managing acid reflux at home:
—Monitor your child’s diet to identify and avoid trigger foods.
—Elevate the head of your child’s bed slightly to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus during sleep.
—Ensure your child wears loose-fitting clothing to reduce pressure on their abdomen.
—Encourage older children to avoid vigorous activity immediately after eating.
While acid reflux is usually manageable with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications, it’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician if your child:
—Has persistent symptoms of acid reflux
—Experiences significant discomfort or pain
—Shows signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers, no tears when crying, or dry mouth
—Has difficulty breathing or a chronic cough
—Is not gaining weight or is losing weight
At Pediatric Heroes and Families Primary Care Clinic, our dedicated team is here to support you and your child through every health challenge, including acid reflux. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Together, we can ensure your little hero’s health and well-being.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. With the right care and support, acid reflux can be managed effectively, allowing your child to thrive and enjoy a healthy, happy childhood.
