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Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux in Children

Gastro-oesophageal reflux, or simply acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid or food irritates the lower esophagus. Gastro-oesophagael reflux occurs in infants and children quite frequently because of the immaturity of their stomachs.

  1. Effects

    • Children who suffer from gastro-oesophageal reflux will have pain or burning in their abdomen, chest or back. They will have excessive belching and a sour taste in their mouth.

    Causes

    • Causes of gastro-oesophageal reflux in children include having a hernia, being overweight, eating certain foods and eating large meals that have a lot of fat.

    Identification

    • To determine what is causing a child to have gastro-oeseophageal reflux, a doctor will gather information about what events occur before the child experiences the symptoms. In some cases, a gastroscopy is ordered.

    Treatment

    • Treatments for gastro-oesophageal reflux in children include medications and dietary changes. In severe cases, surgery is required.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Avoiding certain foods and not lying down right after eating will prevent gastro-oesophageal reflux in some children.

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