Acid Reflux in Babies and Children
There is nothing worse than children suffering with acid reflux disease. Their immunity system is not developed enough to withstand the pain caused by heartburn. It generally occurs within the first six months of the birth. It is common for infants to spit out the meal taken by them, but if vomiting occurs frequently it can be a cause of concern. Studies indicate that most of the time acid reflux in infants is caused due to a poorly coordinated gastrointestinal tract. Some of the typical symptoms include frequent vomiting, refusing to eat meal, not being able to sleep properly, and constantly crying while eating food.
Diagnosis is very important step while dealing with infants. Any homemade remedies should not be tried on infants as you don’t know there reactions on infants. Lab tests should be performed and only then should proper medications be started. Children generally show more major symptoms like poor growth, breathing problems, recurrent pneumonia. Sometime the problem can affect nerves, brain and muscles. The tests which are done to determine the causes are GI series test, pH probe, upper GI endoscopy, and gastric emptying study.
Treatment is the next big step and should be done carefully (acid reflux surgery is only done in rare cases in babies and children). Antacids, acid suppressants, and acid blockers are recommended by most doctors as they are very effective in infants and children. Certain foods like citrus foods, spicy foods, and foods that are very high in sugar and fats should be avoided. Sometimes excess of salivation and drooling may also give rise to the problem. Children’s intake of fatty and fried foods, citrus juices chocolates and peppermint garlic and onions should be limited. Make them drink a lot of water before bedtime and remember that all meals should be taken 2-3 hrs before bedtime.
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