Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, refers to the condition in which stomach acid refluxes to the esophagus. It results from weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter, the round muscle that tightens after food passes to the stomach to prevent reflux. Other predisposing factors include eating fatty foods or acidic fruits, and drinking caffeine-containing products.
Symptoms
School-age children with reflux can complain of heartburn, or chest pain, following eating. Other symptoms include frequent belching, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Some children can have symptoms resembling asthma, with coughing and difficulty breathing.
Treatment
Treatment for school-age children with reflux includes avoidance of foods that trigger the symptoms, over-the-counter medicines that relieve heartburn pain, and prescription medicines that decrease the production of stomach acid.
Considerations
School-age children with reflux should have access to their medicines through the school's nurse or another member of the staff, like a teacher. They should eat slowly, as this reduces the incidence of reflux. Finally, they should avoid cafeteria foods that trigger the symptoms, for example fried foods and pizza.
