GERD and Reflux in Infants and Children

What is Gastroesophageal reflux disease?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD is the abnormal backflow of stomach acid and juices into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that leads from the throat to the stomach.

When infants have gastroesophageal reflux disease, it is called infantile gastroesophageal reflux disease. Most infants occasionally spit up after a meal. However, frequent vomiting may be due to gastroesophageal reflux.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux in Infants and Children

There are many symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• frequent or recurrent vomiting after every meal
• heartburn
• gas
• abdominal pain

If you think your child has gastroesophageal reflux disease, it is important to take them to a doctor.

What Causes Gastroesophageal reflux disease and Acid Reflux in Infants and Children?

Usually, reflux in infants is due the incoordination of the gastrointestinal tract. Most of the time, the infants with GERD condition are otherwise healthy, but some babies have other problems affecting their nerves or brain or muscles.

Will The Baby Outgrow Gastroesophageal reflux disease?

Yes. Most babies outgrow infantile gastroesophageal reflux disease.

How Is Infantile Gastroesophageal reflux disease Diagnosed?

A baby has gastroesophageal reflux disease when he or she throws up after nearly every meal and between feedings. To confirm gastroesophageal reflux disease, the doctor can perform many tests. Some of the most common tests are:

• Barium swallow or upper GI series
• pH probe
• Upper GI endoscopy
• Gastric emptying study

Treatment Options for Gastroesophageal reflux disease

There are many different treatments available. Your doctor will probably give medication and a list of lifestyle changes.

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