Reflux

[2princesses1prince]

Hi

My 4 week old DS started to display signs of silent reflux / colic and now since he has started refusing the breast I have put him onto formula he is now projectile reflux. He has a cough and nasal congestion which I have seen listed as some signs / symptoms.

I am taking him to the doctors tomorrow, but was wanting a bit of a heads up as to what to expect, or what I should ask for in the way of help / treatment.

I have heard Losec or Zantac are good.

Please give me some suggestions.

[RISA]

Hi,
I'm sorry I wasn't able to get to your question yesterday, and I hope you get this in time. My first comment is that I am really glad you are going to the doctor, as it is really important to make sure that what you are dealing with is reflux. Even though reflux may be the most likely scenario, there are other conditions that can present similarly (eg urinary tract infection), and it's very important that they are ruled out too- so the right condition is being treated.

As a side issue, how are you feeling about bottle feeding, since it wasn't the answer you were looking for? I'm sorry that it has added to the issue, with the projectile vomiting. How long have you been bottle feeding, and did you want to try reestablishing breast feeding? That may be an option, especially as the bottle feeding didn't help.

If the dr does agree it is reflux, then there is any amount of ways it needs to be treated- there isn't one correct way as all babies are different and what works for one may not work for another. Is he distressed by the vomiting or the reflux? What is his weight like? They would probably impact on the way the dr responds.

Some of the options the dr may choose is to change the formula to a cows milk free one (as cows milk protein intolerance is a common problem for refluxers). They may also prefer to try lifestyle managements, depending on his discomfort/weight- by suggesting strategies like-
- keeping him upright as much of the day as possible
- making sure he is upright for at least half an hour after a feed
- ensuring he doesnt slump as extra pressure on his tummy can cause further reflux
- burp him frequently throughout the feed
- offer him slightly smaller feeds, slightly more often
- avoid any pressure on his tummy, which includes no tight nappies or elastic waistbands
- change his nappy before a feed rather than after
- let him suck if he wants to- perhaps with a dummy or your clean finger

If the dr does want to try medication, then Losec is often more effective than Zantac- though either may work out fine. That generally comes down to the doctor's personal preference what they choose. If Losec is prescribed, then it's important to know that the granules inside the tablet must not be crushed or chewed. If Zantac is prescribed, then it may help to know that it is a weight related medication, and as your bub puts on weight, it may need to be increased.

I hope that is the kind of information you were looking for,

Glenda