Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a common digestive disorder among infants that occurs when food, stomach acid, and sometimes bile flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as vomiting, coughing, and irritability.
GER can be a normal part of infancy and usually resolves on its own by the time the baby is one year old. However, it can also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires medical attention.
Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux
The main cause of gastroesophageal reflux in infants is an undeveloped lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach and opens to allow food to pass through and closes to prevent reflux.
In infants, the LES is still immature and may not close properly, allowing the acidic stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus. Other factors that increase the risk of GER include:.
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Feeding difficulties
- Food intolerances
- Delay in gastric emptying
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
Signs and Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux in infants may not always present with typical symptoms that can be easily recognized by parents. Some of the common signs and symptoms of GER include:.
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- Spitting up after meals
- Fussiness or irritability
- Poor weight gain
- Coughing or choking
- Arching of the back
- Breathing difficulties
- Sour breath or burps
- Difficulty swallowing
- Wheezing
- Chest discomfort
Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux
If a baby has recurring symptoms of GER, a doctor may perform a physical examination and order additional tests to confirm a diagnosis of GERD. These tests may include:.
- pH probe: A thin tube with a sensor that is passed through the nose or mouth into the esophagus to measure acid levels in the esophagus over a period of 24 hours
- Upper GI series: An X-ray imaging test that uses contrast material to highlight the digestive system
- Endoscopy: A procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus to examine the lining of the esophagus and stomach for damage.
Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants
Most babies with mild to moderate GER will outgrow the condition without treatment. However, if GERD is diagnosed, treatment may involve:.
- Medications: Antacids or proton pump inhibitors can help to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and decrease the symptoms of GERD
- Feeding changes: Smaller, more frequent feedings, slow feeding and burping after meals can help to prevent the buildup of stomach contents and reflux
- Surgery: In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to reinforce the LES or repair a hiatal hernia
Preventing Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants
There are some steps parents can take to prevent or reduce the occurrence of GER in infants, including:.
- Keeping the baby upright for at least 30 minutes after each feeding
- Propping the baby up on an incline during feedings and sleeping
- Avoiding overfeeding or underfeeding the baby
- Avoiding foods that may trigger GERD, such as acidic foods, caffeine, and spicy or fatty foods
- Avoiding tight clothing or diapers that may put pressure on the baby’s abdomen
Conclusion
Gastroesophageal reflux is a common condition among infants that usually resolves on its own over time. However, it can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as GERD, that requires medical attention.
It is important for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of GER and to seek medical advice if they suspect their baby has GERD.
