Symptoms of Infant Reflux
Acid reflux or gastro esophageal reflux disease is a condition wherein the abdominal contents such as foods and acids leaks back to the esophagus. In infants, this is the condition that is responsible for the frequent spitting up or regurgitation of the foods and acids, during or almost instantly after having their meals. Infant acid reflux is very common and in order to have a full understanding of this condition, here written are its probable cause, symptoms and at the same time, a few home remedies for acid reflux in infants.
Cause
- It is generally believed that acid reflux in infants occur due to the poor functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and/or, it has not yet fully matured. The LES is a tiny ring that is made up of muscles and it separates the esophagus and stomach. It opens up to allow the foods to travel down into the stomach and then tightly closes in order to prevent the back flow of the stomach’s contents. If this sphincter fails to properly perform its function or if it is still underdeveloped, regurgitation or reflux of the abdominal contents is likely to occur.
Symptoms
- Feeding problems such as refusing to eat
- Persistent crying, irritability while feeding or after it
- Sinus infection and congestion
- Bad breath
- Frequent burping
- Sleeping problems
- Drooling
- Wheezing or choking
- Vomiting and spitting
- Weight loss and poor weight gain
- Arching of the back while or after eating
- Hoarseness
- Frequent hiccups
Treatment
- Keep your child upright while you feed him/her.
- If you are breastfeeding the baby, you need to be mindful of the things that you eat. Chocolates, caffeine, spicy foods and oily foods can cause acid reflux. You need to avoid eating these food items, especially if you are nursing your baby.
- When it comes to sleeping, have your baby in a somewhat elevated position, so you prevent the backward flow of the abdominal contents.
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