Acid Reflux In Children Is Quite Common
The common belief is that acid reflux is a malady that affects only
adults. Nothing could be further from truth. In fact, acid reflux in
children is very common. Unfortunately, the regular adults do not know
too much about this, complicated by the fact that children do not know
how to express themselves and explain what they feel, makes this a
hidden disease.
How Can You Find Out Whether Your Child Is Suffering From Acid
Reflux?
Before you go for diagnostics, learn a little about what characterizes
acid reflux in children. This occurs when the acid contained in the
stomach for the digestion of food, with or without food, rises up the
alimentary canal which is also called as esophagus. There is a ‘little
gate’ at the upper end of the stomach, which is meant to keep the food
inside till it is digested. There is another ‘little gate’ at the end of
the mouth which is meant to keep the food in the mouth till it is ready
to be swallowed.
These two little gates are the most crucial players in the acid reflux
in children. While the upper esophageal sphincter (the gate at the end
of the mouth) opens to let the food in, many times the other gate, the
lower esophageal sphincter, also opens. This is totally independent of
the upper gate’s movement, but when it happens, the acid and food from
the stomach, will come up in the alimentary canal. This upwards movement
creates a strong burning sensation which the adults recognize and
interpret as acidity.
Unfortunately, acid reflux in children goes undetected for a long time
simply because the children do not know what is happening and do not
know how to express themselves well. By the time they are able to
explain, the acid reflux in children will disappear. Watch closely the
child when he/she is eating, and when they are on empty stomach. Ask
them if they feel the food coming back into the mouth, if they ever feel
their chest burning after eating. If any of these answers are, “yes”,
then it would be good if you show your child to a specialist or
pediatrician.
The Diagnosis Of Acid Reflux In Children
The diagnosis is based on a series of tests which include Barium and
X-ray Test and/or endoscopy. These tests will help the doctor identify
where and what could be the problem, for which the food regurgitated. If
the diagnosis is found to be positive, then there would be another test
following, i.e. the test which would measure the amount of acidity the
stomach contains, so the doctors can judge what type of treatment he/she
should prescribe.
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