Acid Reflux In Children
Adults are not the only ones who suffer from acid reflux. Teens, children, and even infants can be targets of this painful condition. Acid Reflux In Children can take its toll on both kids and parents.
It is normal for babies to occasionally spit up throughout the day. Nevertheless, when it causes other problems or it is associated with other symptoms, it may be due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The symptoms of acid reflux in children may differ from those seen in adults. In young children and infants, GERD causes heartburn, excessive gas and abdominal discomfort, which may be seen as colic. Other common symptoms are frequent coughing, regurgitation and vomiting. Depending on how severely and frequently acid reflux occurs, the child may experience chest pain, bad breath, hoarseness, refusal to eat, weight loss, frequent night waking, gagging, and persistent sore throat, wheezing, ear infections and sinus infections.
Acid reflux in children is diagnosed based on a physical examination and reported symptoms. In other instances, additional tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Children may be subjected to an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, barium swallow, pH probe or gastric emptying study to check for esophageal irritation or narrowing. Urine and blood tests are generally ordered to rule out other causes of vomiting, poor growth and weight loss.
The treatment of acid reflux in children involves a blend of home remedies, medications and dietary changes. To help reduce symptoms, parents should elevate the head of the crib or bed during sleep, thicken bottle feedings with rice cereal, do frequent burping and provide smaller meals. The intake of carbonated beverages, spicy foods, chocolate and citrus products should be lessened, if not completely avoided. Children may also take over-the-counter or prescription medications to help neutralize stomach acid. Antacids, and acid-blocking medications, are safe for use in children. Proton pump inhibitors and Reglan may also be prescribed. Surgery is rarely needed in children, but those with severe and persistent cases may undergo a procedure called Nissen fundoplication.
Severe acid reflux in children can lead to significant complications, which is particularly true in infants and toddlers. Frequent reflux can cause an inflammation of the esophagus called esophagitis that can interfere with feeding and sometimes cause bleeding and the formation of scar tissue that prevents normal swallowing. Because of lack of nutrition brought about by restricted eating or frequent vomiting, children may suffer from malnutrition and poor growth, and babies and young children may develop respiratory complications if stomach contents are inhaled and enter the lungs. Recurring acid reflux also erodes tooth enamel, which causes serious dental problems in older children.
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