Reflux is a common occurrence in infants. More than half of all infants will experience reflux in the first few months of their lives. Symptoms of reflux in infants include refusing to feed, constant crying, and frequent spitting up. Depending on the severity of your infant’s reflux, they may require treatment.

If you notice that your infant is having difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or excessive drooling, this may be an indication that they have a more severe form of reflux. These symptoms are rare and should be addressed immediately. Your child’s pediatrician may opt to perform lab tests to determine what course of treatment would be most effective.

Most infants do not require treatment for reflux. A majority of infants will simply outgrow reflux as they age. By the time your child is 15 months old, reflux should no longer be a problem. For infants that have more severe forms of reflux, treatment may include the use of antacids, acid blockers, and acid suppressors.

Antacids for infant reflux are available over-the-counter and considered to be safe for small children. Examples of antacids include Tums, Mylanta, and Maalox. Acid blockers such as Prilosec should only be used at the advice of your pediatrician. If your child’s pediatrician feels an acid suppressor is needed, he or she may recommend using Zantac or Pepcid.

For more extreme cases of reflux in infants, surgery may be necessary. The procedure, Nissen fundoplication, prevents reflux, but has potential complications. If your doctor recommends this procedure for your infant, you should be aware of all the risks involved with the surgery. You may also want to seek a second opinion.

Infants who are breastfed experience less bouts of reflux than those who are bottle fed. Breast milk is more easily digested than formula, which cuts down on the chance of your infant experiencing reflux. Your infant’s doctor may recommend breastfeeding instead to reduce the severity of reflux.

To cut down on the risk of your infant experiencing reflux, there are several things you can do. When feeding your baby, hold them in an upright position. Do not lie your infant down immediately following breastfeeding. Hold your baby in an upright position for at least 30-45 minutes to reduce the chances of reflux. You can also try feeding your child in smaller, more frequent feedings.

Reflux is normal in infants. If your infant spits up or vomits after eating, don’t panic. If you are concerned, consult with your pediatrician.

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