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Acid Reflux Symptoms in Infants

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER or acid reflux) in infants occurs when food or stomach acid flows backward from the stomach to the esophagus, causing them to spit up. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House (NDDICH), more than 50 percent of infants have GER, and most do not suffer any consequences other than discomfort and spitting up---they continue to eat, gain weight and thrive. However, infants can suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which affects their appetites and ability to gain weight.

  1. Common Symptoms of GER in Infants

    • Babies with GER frequently spit up, cry more, are irritable when feeding and cough or hiccup often. A baby may also arch his back while feeding, consume insufficient amounts or avoid feeding altogether. Babies suffering from GER tend to wake frequently during the night; however, as this is a common occurrence during infancy, it should not be considered a definitive sign of GER if no other symptoms are present.

    Common Symptoms of GERD

    • Infants with GERD frequently display many of the same symptoms as GER sufferers. However, infants with GERD tend to be anemic, irritable, have poor growth, choke or gag while eating and exhibit a persistent aversion to food. They may also suffer from respiratory problems such as wheezing, pneumonia and chronic sinusitis.

    Diagnosis

    • GER or GERD is initially diagnosed by consultation between the parents and pediatrician. Tests may be needed to determine the severity of the condition. An upper GI series highlights the esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine after the infant is given barium to highlight organs; the x-ray is studied for any abnormalities. The pH probe is used to measure stomach acids and is funneled through the infant's nose to the top of the esophagus. An upper GI endoscopy examines the esophagus, stomach and small intestines with a lighted probe called an endoscope. A diagnosis can also be made through a gastric emptying study, where the infant ingests a safe radioactive chemical that is followed through the gastrointestinal tract by a special camera.

    Treatment

    • In mild cases of GER, no medication is necessary as most babies will outgrow the problem. Elevate the baby's head in the crib or bassinet, keep the baby upright after a feeding or change his feeding schedule to help alleviate symptoms and discomfort.
      For more serious cases of GER or GERD, antacids, acid blockers or acid suppressors approved for infants are prescribed. Surgery may be required in rare cases.

    Warning

    • Always consult a pediatrician before administering antacids, herbal tinctures or other over-the-counter medicines to an infant.

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