Signs & Symptoms of Acid Reflux in Newborns

Acid reflux can cause any parent of a newborn to worry. During acid reflux, a portion of the contents of the newborn's stomach comes back up the esophagus, sometimes to the point the newborn will vomit a portion of his meal. According to the Mayo Clinic, acid reflux in newborns can continue until the child is 12 to 18 months old, but there are certain signs and symptoms that the condition is serious enough a doctor needs to intervene.

Spitting Up

• Newborns who have acid reflux tend to spit up more than newborns who do not. The spitting up occurs after the newborn has fed, and it can be very regular. The spitting up problem can progress to the point the newborn has projectile vomiting, during which the milk shoots out of the newborn's mouth with force. When the spitting up progresses to this point, you should take the newborn to a doctor, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Feeding Problems

• Acid reflux can cause problems with a newborn's feedings. Newborns with acid reflux often do not eat as much as newborns who do not have acid reflux. This decreased appetite becomes a problem when the baby stops gaining weight. Some newborns with acid reflux will get to the point they will refuse feedings. Again, according to the Mayo Clinic, if your newborn stops gaining weight or refuses to eat, it is time to see a doctor. Another sign the baby needs to be taken to a doctor is if the baby ceases her crying while eating if she is held head up.

Other Serious Symptoms

• Watch for how many diapers the newborn goes through in a day. If the number has decreased from normal, acid reflux may be the culprit. Newborns with acid reflux also can have lower energy levels as a result of the decreased appetite. Acid reflux can even cause a newborn to have trouble breathing, chronic diarrhea or a fever. Another serious sign of acid reflux in a newborn is blood being expelled in the infant's stools. If the newborn is showing any of these symptoms, call a doctor immediately.