Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition that causes acidic stomach contents to move back up into the esophagus, resulting in uncomfortable heartburn or chest discomfort. Most babies with GERD outgrow the condition by the time they turn 1- or 2-years-old, but sometimes the conditions lasts throughout childhood and into adulthood, according to KidsHealth.org. Parents concerned about their child's reflux should discuss the many treatment options with a doctor.
Step 1
Plan meals and snacks in advance. Avoid foods that seem to trigger GERD symptoms, including peppermint, tomato-based foods or sauces, chocolate, citrus fruits, garlic, onions, spicy foods, fatty foods, fried foods and caffeine.
Step 2
Tell the child to remain sitting or standing after eating. Lying down may trigger reflux, so children should wait until their food has had a chance to digest before doing so. The child should avoid eating two to three hours before bedtime, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Step 3
Raise the head of the child's bed to keep the child in a more upright position during sleep, thereby minimizing the likelihood of reflux. Use blocks of wood or another sturdy material to raise the posts of the bed approximately 6 to 8 inches. Do not use pillows or other soft objects.
Step 4
Give the child an over-the-counter antacid. Always read the label carefully or check with a doctor to make sure the antacid is safe for children and that you are giving the proper dosage.
Step 5
Take the child to the doctor. A doctor can rule out other causes for GERD symptoms and determine if medication is necessary.
Step 6
Tell the doctor about any side effects the child experiences while taking medication. If the doctor initially prescribed an H2-blocker, for example, but it does not seem to be helping the child, ask her if a proton-pump inhibitor or a prokinetic agent may be a better choice.
Step 7
Read about fundoplication. Fundoplication is a surgery performed to treat severe cases of GERD when other medical treatments fail to help the condition. Although this surgery is rarely necessary, talk to a doctor about it if medication does not seem to be working or if the child's GERD is particularly severe.
Tips and Warnings
- Children who eat smaller meals more frequently may experience a reduction in the symptoms of GERD.
- GERD medications may cause serious side effects in some children. Parents should always research medications thoroughly and talk to a doctor about questions or concerns before allowing their child to take any medication.
