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Signs & Symptoms of Silent Reflux in Infants

Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid and digestive juices back out of the stomach into the esophagus. In infants, the condition usually occurs because of a weak sphincter muscle that either does not close all the way, or opens at inappropriate times, allowing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus. Silent reflux is a type of acid reflux that occurs when an infant refluxes acid and digestive juices into the esophagus, but then swallows them back down. According to the Reflux in Infants and Children organization, silent reflux can actually be more harmful that typical reflux since the stomach acids spend more time in the esophagus where they can damage the esophageal lining and digestive tract.

  1. Typical Reflux Symptoms

    • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is typically characterized by frequent spitting-up or vomiting. Other symptoms may include physical symptoms of pain such as pulling up the legs toward the chest and arching the back. Also, GERD may cause coughing and gagging while eating. Infants with GERD may also wake up screaming during naps or during the night. Other symptoms may include irritability when eating and refusing to eat.

    Silent Reflux Symptoms

    • Silent reflux symptoms may include symptoms of typical reflux, but usually vomiting is minimal or not present at all. Other symptoms of silent reflux may include gulping sounds, bad breath and episodes of choking. If you suspect your infant has silent reflux, consult a pediatrician who can order tests to determine if the infant in indeed refluxing.

    Treatment

    • According to the BabyCenter.com website, most infants outgrow GERD before their first birthday. In the meantime, GERD may be treated with medications such as prescription antacids and acid suppressors. It is also helpful to hold infants upright during feeding and for a while after feeding. Smaller, more frequent feedings may also help. Adding baby cereal to formula is sometimes helpful; however, consult a pediatrician before adding cereal.

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