You probably think that only adults that eat spicy foods suffer from acid reflux. While that is the case for many people, it is certainly not the rule. People of all ages can get acid reflux. It may not be chronic, but children and even infants can get it, too.
It is never easy when your child or infant has acid reflux. It is very hard to tell in many cases. Your child may not be able to tell you exactly what is wrong, especially with young toddlers and babies.
Acid reflux is an uncomfortable condition. Your child may confuse the symptoms and discomfort with a stomach ache or an upset stomach. Your child may tell you that he or she has a sore throat or feels like he or she is going to throw up.
Children are famous for having sick tummies so you may not even worry. However, if you find that your child complains day after day, at night or even after certain foods then you may need to take a closer look at what is really going on.
The symptoms of acid reflux in children are very similar to what adults feel. For example, the main symptom of acid reflux is stomach pain that may radiate into the chest and neck or throat. This is caused by the stomach acids flowing up from the stomach and into the esophagus. The acids will cause burning and pain. In fact, children who have this symptom may cry and whine. Babies with acid reflux may not want to take a bottle anymore.
What else causes acid reflux in children? Some babies may be born with immature sphincter muscles in the esophagus. The good news about this is that it is not always permanent. Most of the time, babies born with this condition will outgrow it by the time he or she is 12 to 18 months in age. In the meantime, you will need to learn to recognize the symptoms and learn how to treat it.
With infants, they cannot tell you when they feel bad. One thing you can do is to give your baby smaller feedings and change positions when you fed. Your baby may need to sit up instead of lying flat. Frequent burping and over the counter medications such Mylicon might also be a great option.
For older children that have acid reflux, you will treat it much as you would with adults. First of all, take a look at the types of foods that your child eats. You might also want to make sure your child does not eat late at night. You can treat your child with lots of different medications that will quell the symptoms. Of course, if you are hesitant about medicating your child, you should talk to your pediatrician and get advice about this condition.
Babies and children can get acid reflux, so if you find your child is having problems, this is something you should take a look at.
