What is acid reflux in babies and how to treat it

Acid Reflux in Babies

Acid is located in the gastric juices and when they enter the esophagus from the stomach, a problem called acid reflux occurs. This will cause swallowing problems, chest pain and heartburn. Heartburn is a feeling of burning located in the lower chest or neck and it tends to go towards the neck. There are other symptoms of acid reflux and they are asthma, dental erosion, hoarseness and regurgitation, which is a return of the food to the mouth.

Acid reflux among babies is very common and it usually goes away after certain period of time, but the problem may become more serious and even dangerous, so treatment must be conducted. Colic is a problem that can be triggered by the acid reflux and this is a condition causing screaming or crying among the babies. The return of the stomach acid to the esophagus is the main reason why this happens and this issue will cause a lot of discomfort, but the treatment will demand some time until you find an efficient solution.

Treatment

There is another name for the acid reflux and it is GERD, or the gastro esophageal reflux disease, and unhealthy diet is the main culprit for it. A baby cannot say what is wrong or what she or he feels, and this is maybe the most troubling issue with treatment and detection of the problem. Pediatrician is the first person to visit if you suspect your child is having some problems. Crying and screaming can be caused by several illnesses and treatment depends on the correct diagnose, which can only be done by a pediatrician.

We have mentioned that the diet is one of the usual causes of acid reflux and it is good to check the nutrition of your baby. Acid reflux problem can be detected by the amounts and types of food that baby eats. Fat can be bad for the babies with GERD so you have to avid dairy products and similar foods.

Formula can be altered as well, and this is due to the difference in tolerance of certain foods among babies. Liquid calcium can be very beneficial in this situation due to its soothing and cooling effects, which will aid the healing process. There are medications that can be used if all other methods fail and the most commonly used are Reglin and Zantac. Only doctor can prescribe them and their use must be monitored by a doctor.

Babies older than six months can use these medications. Sleep apnea is a real danger because of the spitting that a baby normally does. When this problem occurs, babies will stop breathing during the spitting and this raises chances of choking, since babies have a narrow throat. Remember to see a pediatrician if you think that your baby is having a problem with the acid reflux.