Infant Acid Reflux
Virtually all infants exhibit some form of what is medically termed as gastroesophageal reflux (GER). GER is the official name for acid reflux, or heartburn. Typically, all people experience acid reflux on occasion, in a way that issues no reason for alarm. Newborns, more often than adults, suffer a mild form of GER, commonly accompanied by regurgitation. It is not unusual for babies to "spit up" after some meals. During the first months of life, the gastrointestinal tract is not fully coordinated. A misfire of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) may allow stomach contents, including acid, to travel backwards into the esophagus. The condition normally resolves itself within the babies' first year and is, usually, no cause for concern.
When Reflux Becomes Severe
Chronic acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), in newborns is much less common, affecting only about one in 300 hundred babies. GERD is a more serious condition that generally requires medical treatment. GERD can come about as a result of increased pressure beneath the LES. Conversely, inappropriate relaxation of the lower esophageal opening could also be a factor. Warning signs of GERD include excessive vomiting, continuous cough, gas behavior indicating abdominal pain, frequent crying, general fussiness, regurgitation and re-swallowing.
Secondary GER happens when backwards movement of material in the stomach is caused by the appearance of some irregular activity, or element, in the body. Allergies, infection, metabolic disorders may contribute to the development of secondary GER. This condition may also stem from blockage of the pyloric sphincter, a circular layer of the gastric musculature encircling the gastroduodenal junction.
Other Triggers
Failure to position infants upright for a short period of time immediately after feeding may also aggravate reflux. Any reduction in the stomach's ability to clear its contents will create conditions conducive to back flow. Formula is not as easily digested as human milk and, therefore, take longer to vacate. Furthermore, experimentation with different formula may lead to babies' systems taking a combination of elements that they are not prepared to handle. The diet of either baby, or mother (if breastfeeding), comes into question when examining the causes of incessant reflux. Highly acidic or spicy foods, caffeine, wheat or eggs within the mother's diet could contribute to digestive difficulties. Proper medical diagnosis is key in identifying the lead cause of infant GERD.
