infant reflux
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At a very basic level, infant reflux is the regurgitation of milk and stomach acid by a baby, which can cause the baby pain and which causes distress to both the infant and parents.

We have provided some additional information and suggestions for dealing with infant reflux below, however, if you think that your baby is suffering from reflux, you should visit your health care practioner for further medical advice first. The description and information below has been kindly provided for us by the Reflux Infants Support Association (RISA) Inc.

What is Reflux? Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR/reflux) occurs when food and stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus (foodpipe). For some babies, this causes no problems, but for others, it can be a significant problem that requires medical treatment, investigation and for a very small percentage, surgery. The exact cause is unknown, but may be associated with an immature digestive system, hereditary factors, food sensitivities, and other medical issues.

If your baby is happy, eating well and gaining weight, then there may be no need for any treatment. Reflux will resolve in most children by 12 to 18 months of age, with many outgrowing it well before then. There is a very small proportion who will continue to suffer from reflux beyond the age of 2 years.

There are other symptoms of reflux, other than vomiting, or posseting, that many babies exhibit. Some babies reflux without it coming out of their mouths (termed silent reflux). If you suspect your child has reflux, or have any concerns, it is important to seek medical guidance (reflux is not always the cause). The list below outlines some of the more common signs of reflux that may require treatment:

  • vomiting / posseting / regurgitating
  • irritability / excessive crying
  • appearing to be in pain
  • feeding problems
    • refusal to feed or only taking a small amount despite being hungry
    • comfort feeding - feeding frequently
    • pulling away and arching their back
    • crying during or after feeds
    • gagging/spluttering
  • sleeping issues
    • catnapping during the day
    • frequent night waking (though some refluxers do sleep well at night)
    • easily disturbed from sleep
  • wheezing/coughing
  • failure to thrive
  • recurrent chest infections

Home hints

  • Keep your baby upright for at least 30 minutes after a feed.
  • Use a baby sling, which allows you to keep your child upright, while keeping your hands free. Avoid baby slumping.
  • Try elevating the head of the cot/bassinet
  • Consider using a dummy.
  • Avoid vigorous movements or bouncing the baby.
  • The best time to lay your baby on the floor is when baby's tummy is empty, i.e. before a feed
  • Change nappy before a feed. Take care to elevate the baby's head and shoulders. Avoid lifting the legs too high, and turn to the side if possible.
  • Avoid any tight clothing around the waist, such as tight nappies, elastic waistbands.
  • Avoid overfeeding - if the baby vomits, wait until the next feeding rather than feeding them again. You should consult your doctor or child health nurse to ensure that you baby is getting appropriate amounts of food
  • If the baby is bottle-fed, it may be worthwhile trying AR (anti-reflux) formula, or a hypoallergenic one.
  • Offer a spoonful of thickened milk (formula or breastmilk) following the feed - discuss the type of 'thickener' with your healthcare provider before starting this.
  • If breastfeeding, the mother should avoid eating foods that can aggravate reflux such as citrus, tomato, fatty foods, spicy foods, chocolate and carbonated drinks.
  • Some reflux children may suffer from food sensitivities, and may need dietary restrictions (or the mother may consider an elimination diet). If you suspect foods may be responsible for your child' condition, it is essential to discuss this with your health care provider. Do not change your or your child's diet before seeking medical advice.
  • Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke.
  • Contact a reflux support organisation for further information and support. The effect on the baby AND the family can be devastating and support groups can provide more detailed information, and offer the emotional support you may need.

It is essential to seek medical guidance if you have any concerns, such as the reflux appears worse, or you are worried about your baby or yourself. If symptoms are severe or persistent, your local doctor may consider treatment with medication, or refer your baby to a paediatric gastroenterologist.

Information kindly written for The Bub Hub by the Reflux Infants Support Association (RISA) Inc

Having reflux issues? We are very pleased to announce that representatives of RISA have joined our panel of online experts and will be answering reflux questions posted on our online community forum on a regular basis.

 
 

There are some useful online descriptions and treatment suggestions below:

 


Support Organisations

Reflux Infants Support Association
> website
> ph: (07) 3229 1090

The association is a non-profit organisation who's aim is to support families and carers of children with reflux. Support is offered nationwide. The Association also hold regular local group meetings in the Brisbane and Sydney regions. For more details contact RISA Inc.

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