Not sure

[muls]

Hi,
I was wondering whether my son may have reflux. He has always wanted to sit up or be stood up after a feed and the past few days he has been in pain during feeds and arches his back and drops off from his feeds and is hard to settle. He has also been catnapping during the day rather than having his normal sleeps.

Thanks

[RISA]

Hi Mandy
Thanks for contacting our organisation, and congratulations on the birth of your beautiful little bundle.

I'm a firm believer in trusting a mother's instincts, and they are obviously telling you that something is wrong. It is entirely possible it could be reflux- the signs you describe do fit, and it is possible for reflux to begin at that age. (basically anything goes with reflux)

It is important though, to talk to your doctor about your concerns as there are other conditions that can present similarly (such as a urinary tract infection). It can be really important for a doctor to review bub- it's a matter of ensuring you are treating the right condition and not ignoring what you shouldn't.

If it IS reflux, are you aware of some lifestyle strategies you can try? like keeping him upright during a feed and after for about 30 minutes if possible? (and as much of the day as possible).
Try to avoid overfeeding- slightly smaller amounts slightly more often may work best
encourage the use of a dummy if you are comfortable with that idea (if not, then that's fine too)
Avoid tight elastic or waistbands as pressure on the tummy can cause reflux
Sometimes thickened feeds or adding thickener after a feed is recommended- it can be great for some refluxers, but doesnt necessarily work for all of them.


There are also lots of other ideas too, so if you do get a diagnosis of reflux, please message back so we can offer other suggestions. Have you taken a look at our website at www.reflux.org.au? That may also offer you some helpful info too.

One of the biggest things to keep in mind if your doctor does diagnose reflux, is that what works for one may not work for another, and it is often a matter of trial and error to find the answers. Keep trusting your instincts and doing what feels right and I hope he starts to feel more comfortable soon.

I hope that is the kind of information you are looking for

Glenda