Infant Reflux

Reflux is described as the backward flow of stomach contents up the esophagus and sometimes out the mouth. The esophagus is the long tube that food and liquids travel through to get from the mouth to the stomach. The lower end of the esophagus contains a valve called the lower esophageal sphincter which allows food and liquids to pass to go into the stomach and keeps them from coming back into the esophagus. It is this sphincter that is the cause of reflux.

When the sphincter does not properly function it allows contents in the stomach to go back into, and sometimes back up in the esophagus. Stomach acid also known as hydrochloric acid is what causes the burning sensation in the esophagus when it gets backed up. The acid is what causes the damage and pain that is associated with reflux. The acid’s natural habitat, the stomach, has a lining that protects it from the acid whereas the esophagus does not.

It is thought that approximately 50% of infants are born with some degree of reflux. Reflux in infants is associated with the immaturity of the esophageal sphincter. Reflux in infants usually does not last and the infants usually outgrow it within the first year of life. There are the few infants who do not outgrow it and will experience it until later on in childhood and some, into adulthood.

One of the main signs of infant reflux is when a baby throws up numerous times after most all feedings as well as in between feedings. Other common signs of infant reflux include irritability, constant or sudden crying, not outgrowing the spit up stage, poor sleep habits, wet burp or wet hiccup noises, bad breath, and refusing food. Less common symptoms of infant reflux are constant eating and drinking, poor weight gain, ear infections, tooth enamel erosion, excessive drooling, hoarse voice, swallowing problems, gagging, choking, respiratory problems, frequent red and sore throat, and not wanting certain foods.

There are many different things that can help with infant reflux, however because there are many reasons and causes of a weak esophageal sphincter, there is no cure. Some things that can help are positioning the baby so gravity can help keep the food in the stomach, thickening formula so it will be harder to regurgitate, burping frequently though the feedings, adjusting meals to make them smaller so less is in the stomach at a time, and avoiding any foods that cause basic heartburn. If you suspect your infant to have reflux you should see your child’s pediatrician immediately to be sure the problem is not causing permanent damage.