More than half of all young babies have some degree of reflux, according to the National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse. However, not all of those with the condition have obvious symptoms. Even a baby without apparent signs of acid reflux can be subject to the pain and discomfort associated with this disease.
What Causes Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when the stomach contents creep back up into the esophagus. According to the National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC, this process often occurs naturally to allow gas to escape the stomach; however, in infants stomach contents often also escape. Acid reflux is fairly common in infants and does not cause serious problems for most. The NDDIC reports that most cases of infant acid reflux fade between 1 and 2 years of age.
Features
While one obvious signs of acid reflux is spitting up, a baby with silent acid reflux may not actually have noticeable episodes. This does not mean acid is not creeping up the esophagus. Some other signs that an infant is experiencing acid reflux include arching the back when eating, fussiness after meals, coughing or wheezing. The Mayo Clinic reports that an infant with silent acid reflux may also be fussy when placed on his back, especially if it is soon after eating. Some infants in severe pain may go so far as to resist feedings or may have unexplained poor weight gain.
Identification
Since babies with silent acid reflux do not always spit up, a doctor may ask questions about the baby's behaviors during and after meals. In addition to evidence of the symptoms above, a doctor may perform diagnostic tests. According to the Mayo Clinic, some common tests for acid reflux in babies include blood work and esophageal pH testing, in addition to imaging studies of the upper GI tract. Some cases may require an endoscopy, in which a camera is inserted into the baby's esophagus to check for obstructions or abnormalities that might be causing problems.
Treating Reflux
Silent acid reflux treatment is the same as that for obvious cases of acid reflux. Fortunately, not all cases require medication. Simple feeding and position changes can often help prevent episodes of reflux. These include keeping the baby upright after feedings, burping during feedings and feeding smaller meals more frequently. In addition, the NDDIC reports that some infants benefit from thickened formula or breast milk. If conservative treatments fail, medications similar to those used for adult heartburn may be prescribed.
Warning
Even if a baby is already receiving treatment for silent reflux, there are a few warning signs parents should be aware of. These include difficulty breathing as well as forceful vomiting. In addition, the NDDIC reports that any vomit that appears yellow or green, or like coffee grounds, should be assessed immediately by a doctor.
