Diagnosing Acid Reflux In Infants and Children
Studies have shown children and infants are just as susceptible as adults to acid reflux symptoms and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The real problems lies in diagnosing acid reflux in infants and children and the appropriate treatment. Infants especially are hard to diagnose as they have no way to tell us there is a problem other than crying and irritability. Other physical symptoms give the parents a better indication for a real problem such as vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and little or no desire to feed. Older children can voice something is wrong with their little tummy, but they often can’t differentiate between a tummy ache and a burning acid sensation. It’s important for the parents to make themselves aware of the symptoms to look for and what treatment options are available.
In addition to the symptoms listed above, babies and children experiencing acid reflux symptoms can show subtle signs like increased gas, bad breath or even respiratory problems. More severe symptoms include projectile vomiting and failure to thrive. This is not a complete list of symptoms associated with acid reflux and GERD in infants and children, and it is wise to keep a watchful eye out for exactly when they occur, if they appear to be related to foods and how often they are happening.
Some home fixes for acid reflux symptoms in babies and children are easy to accommodate and safe. For babies, burp your baby several times during feeding time and avoid lying the baby down directly after a feeding. Just like adults, the baby needs time to properly digest the food. If the baby lies down for bed right after a feeding stomach pressure is increase and the likelihood of symptom recurrence is greater. Things to consider in older children are slightly different. Limit or avoid altogether carbonated beverages, caffeine, fatty foods, chocolate and citrus fruits that are high in acid content. Again, keep the child up after eating for a period of time. With dietary modifications and lifestyle changes, the symptoms may be much more controllable.
If your infant or child continues to experience symptoms of gastric reflux, consult a physician. They have an arsenal of medications to aid in treatment. A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) decreases the amount of acid produced by the acid pumps in the stomach and an H2 blocker stop the production of acid; both of which are commonly prescribed and also available over-the-counter. Before giving your child any over-the-counter medications for acid reflux it is advised to seek the advice of a qualified professional pediatrician.
In severe cases your pediatrician may even suggest surgical intervention. This is an effective way to manage symptoms that are unresponsive to both home and pharmaceutical infant acid reflux treatments. Sometimes, repeat surgeries are required as the child continues to develop and grow and expect your baby or child to be on prescribed acid blockers for a period of time after the surgery.
As a parent, it’s imperative to arm yourself with the tools necessary for recognizing acid reflux symptoms, treatment with dietary modifications and when to contact the primary care provider for assistance. When acid reflux is left untreated it may contribute to other more serious problems and even hospitalization.
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