Infant Acid Reflux
Infant acid reflux occurs when acids and other materials in the
stomach flow back into the esophagus. The esophagus is a muscular tube
that connects the throat with the stomach. Normally, the esophagus
contracts to move food from the throat into the stomach. A tough rim of
muscle, called the esophageal sphincter, opens to allow food out of the
esophagus, and then contracts tightly to prevent it from re-entering the
esophagus. In infant acid reflux, the esophageal sphincter does not work
properly, and the acid flows backwards into the esophagus, causing the
infant discomfort. Acid reflux is not at all uncommon in infants--up to
have of all babies may experience it occasionally.
Most of these babies are healthy and require no special medical
intervention. Symptoms of occasional infant acid reflux may include
spitting or vomiting, coughing, occasional fussiness or crying after
eating (acid reflux can cause an unpleasant burning sensation in the
chest and throat), and reluctance to feed due to discomfort.
Serious Problem In Infants With Acid Reflux
Usually, acid reflux is mild, transitory, and requires no special
treatment. Sometimes, however, an infant may experience severe and
consistent acid reflux. Such infants may begin to lose weight because
they are unable to keep enough food in their stomachs to nourish them
adequately. The occasional crying or fussiness at a meal turns into a
daily refusal of food, since eating has become associated with severe
discomfort in the baby's mind. If food in the esophagus is being
aspirated (sucked) into the lungs, the infant may develop respiratory
problems such as wheezing and gasping for air. Finally, the acid reflux
may damage the infant's esophagus enough to cause anemia due to loss of
blood.
Any infant with symptoms of serious acid reflux should be taken to a
doctor immediately. The doctor can perform tests to confirm the
diagnosis of acid reflux. Much of the time, even serious problems with
acid reflux will clear up on their own, or with a few changes in the way
the baby is positioned or fed. Sometimes the doctor will recommend
giving the baby frequent small feedings instead of a few large feedings,
thickening the formula, and feeding your infant in an upright position.
Making sure to burp your infant both during and after meals can also
help.
If the infant acid reflux does not clear up with these suggestions,
stronger interventions may be called for. Your doctor may prescribe
medication or even recommend surgery to tighten the esophageal
sphincter.
Most of the time, however, infant acid reflux is not much to worry
about. Babies usually outgrow it naturally with no negative effects.
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