What Is Infant Acid Reflux And What To Do About It?

What is acid reflux? Acid reflux is more commonly known as heartburn. Most of us have experienced it at one time or another and we usually associate with that pizza we ate at 2 o'clock in the morning. So what is infant acid reflux then?

Bile Reflux
Bile Reflux is more than a burning sensation in the chest

First, let's understand what acid reflux is.

The human body (including infants) has something called a lower esophageal sphincter. This sphincter is designed to let food through to the stomach while at the same time keep the stomach acid in the stomach. Form time to time this sphincter malfunctions. Sometimes we just eat poorly or too much and that causes excess gas and acid build up that the sphincter cannot keep down. Sometimes we may just be born with a weak sphincter that acts up when we lay down or bend over. Sometimes our heartburn is indicative of something more serious such as sleep apnea.

It is important to understand that some acid reflux is frequent and ongoing (chronic) and some is occasional (acute). If you have an underlying condition that causes the reflux to be chronic or your lower esophageal sphincter is damaged, you may have GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease). If you suspect this, speak to your physician immediately.

What does this have to do with infant acid reflux? Well, now you know how it is caused and the difference between regular acid reflux and GERD. It is not likely that your infant has GERD but if you suspect it in the least, please see you physician or pediatrician right away.

Most likely your infant did not get acid reflux from pizza, so, where did they get it? For one thing, babies spend far more time on their back than adults. When they are on their backs, gravity is not helping to keep the stomach acids down.

Also, most babies primarily eat liquids. Solids are heavier and help keep the stomach acid where it belongs.

Now you know why your baby has infant acid reflux. What can you do to help?

You can try adding cereal to the baby's bottle which may absorb some of the stomach acid.

After feeding the baby, make sure that you keep it upright for at least half of an hour so that the digestion process is well under way. Make sure to burp your baby properly as normal.

Try to have the baby sleep in an upright position as much as possible (check with your doctor on this). This will help keep the stomach acid down.

In extreme circumstances, your physician may suggest some over the counter medications or even prescription medications. Please do your research on these and make the best informed decision for you and your child.