Gastroesophageal reflux is not comfortable at any age, but it is especially difficult to deal with in children. A small number of children suffer from gastroesophageal reflux, although it is usually outgrown in later childhood. The most important treatment for reflux in children is determining the food that triggers a reaction and eliminating it from the diet.
What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux?
According to Medline Plus, gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic digestive disorder in which food passes from the stomach back into the esophagus. Once food is in the stomach, a ring of muscle fibers, called the lower esophageal sphincter, prevents food from moving backward into the esophagus. If the sphincter muscle does not close well, stomach acid can leak back into the esophagus. The backwash of acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing various symptoms and even damage to the esophagus.
Causes
There are a number of possible causes for acid reflux in children. Perhaps the most common causes of acid reflux among children are genetics, an immature digestive system and food allergies or intolerance. Some children have trouble digesting certain types of food. And children born to families with a history of pediatric acid reflux have been shown to be at an increased risk. Slow digestion causes food to stay in the stomach longer, leading to increased acidity. Slow stomach emptying resulting from a high fat meal, food not thoroughly chewed, or even constipation are possible causes of reflux.
Symptoms
E Med TV states that young children typically experience spitting up, coughing, vomiting, impaired growth, sore throat, belching, irritability, gas pains, refusing food and breathing problems. In older children, however, symptoms are similar to those experienced by adults. These symptoms include heartburn, sensation of food stuck in the throat, feeling tight in the throat, acidic or sour taste in the mouth, difficult or painful swallowing and chest pain.
Diagnosis
As reported by Kid's Health, a health care provider can usually diagnose acid reflux with a physical exam and knowledge of the symptomatic foods. However, diagnostic tests may be necessary. A barium swallow is an X-ray that examines the refluxing of liquid in the esophagus, irritation and abnormalities in the upper digestive tract. A 24 hour pH probe study is considered the most accurate method to diagnose reflux and involves the placement of a tube into the esophagus. The tip monitors the acid levels in the esophagus. Consistently high acid levels are indicative of reflux. A more invasive test is an upper endoscopy in which the doctor will look directly into the digestive tract for any irregularities.
Dietary Treatment
In most cases, acid reflux can be treated with diet and lifestyle changes. According to E Med TV, children on an acid reflux diet should choose a wide variety of low-calorie, nutritious foods including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat milk as well as fish, lean meat, poultry and dry beans. The first step is to avoid symptomatic foods. Common acid-forming foods include: chocolate, peppermint, fried foods, tomato products, caffeine, onions, garlic, spices, vinegar, citrus and carbonated beverages. Eat frequent, small meals and avoid eating for at least two hours before bedtime.
