Heartburn in Children

Heartburn is caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Most children have a hard time describing the symptoms of heartburn. The parent can watch for certain signs and symptoms of the condition that might show further tests are needed. Medical intervention as early as possible can prevent further complications.

Identification

• A parent can watch for certain symptoms of heartburn such as coughing or complaints of stomach aches or pain in the chest after eating. Mood changes after meals, whether the child is aggressive or fussy, can also show signs of his discomfort or distress. If the child vomits, relieving the pain, the negative behavior will usually go away. The parent can also watch to see if the child seems distressed when lying down or playing. If you have concerns about their well-being or discomfort, contact the doctor immediately.

Considerations

• Babies under the age of 3 months often spit up after bottles due to reflux. Reflux can be accompanied by heartburn. If you're concerned about the amount a baby spits up, consult the doctor immediately. Young children suffer from heartburn due to immature digestive systems. Secondhand smoke, weight issues and acidic or spicy foods can contribute to heartburn in older children.

Diagnosis

• A gastroenterologist will help diagnose the cause of heartburn. An upper GI uses barium in the form of a chalky liquid, which the child drinks, to highlight trouble areas through X-rays. A gastric emptying study is similar to the upper GI with the child drinking milk that contains a radioactive substance. The doctor watches through a camera while the liquid passes through the child's system. Other tests are available if necessary.

Prevention

• Make sure your child wears loose clothes when eating. Tight clothes can push against the stomach and cause pressure. Don't let her overeat. Small meals are helpful when a child is dealing with heartburn. Let the meal digest before she lies down or plays hard. Try to avoid citrus fruits and unhealthy food choices. Foods that irritate the stomach lining can cause stomach acids to back up into the esophagus.

Treatment

• The best treatment is to prevent the heartburn in the first place. This can be accomplished by controlling the amounts and types of food your child eats during meals. If heartburn is still an issue after changing the way he eats, a physician can treat heartburn through prescription drugs. Antacids are the most commonly recommended drugs. Only give these to your child at a doctor's recommendation.

Warning

• Untreated heartburn can lead to other complications down the road. GERD (gastroesophogeal reflux disorder) is a condition that happens when the sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus, the opening into the stomach which normally prevents the acid from backing up, is loose. The acid backs up and irritates the delicate tissues of the throat or esophagus. Make sure to have your child's physician check him out if you have concerns that your child might be suffering from this disorder.