Infants and Acid Reflux
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Other.
Infants and Acid Reflux
Overview
Infant acid reflux is a common concern for many parents. Just like adults, infants can experience mild heartburn or acidic regurgitation, especially since they primarily consume liquids or soft foods. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) ?" a valve that separates the esophagus and the stomach ?" relaxes. Normally, the LES opens to allow food into the stomach and closes to prevent acid from flowing back. Identifying whether an infant has developed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be a challenge.
Symptoms and Indicators
To determine if an infant has GERD, it’s important to consult a pediatrician. Signs to watch for include sleeping difficulties, coughing, weight loss, lack of appetite, frequent spitting up, and apnea. GERD can lead to respiratory issues such as pneumonia, as well as strictures and ulcerations in the esophagus, and malnutrition. Common symptoms in infants include persistent coughing, bad breath, frequent spitting up, unusual irritability, chest pain, and a sore throat.
Causes
Several factors contribute to acid reflux in infants. Unlike adults, infants consume mostly liquids and often lie on their backs, increasing the pressure on the LES and the likelihood of reflux. Additional causes include anatomical variations in the stomach, poor feeding habits, exposure to secondhand smoke, being overweight, and food allergies.
Managing Acid Reflux
Infants may experience a functional form of acid reflux, which can often be managed with simple adjustments. These include modifying feeding habits, keeping the infant upright after meals, and providing appropriate encouragement. In cases of GERD, medical intervention is necessary. This might involve prescription medications and lifestyle modifications as directed by a healthcare professional.
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