Gastroesophageal reflux is a common disorder in infants. The symptoms are a result of acid from the stomach flowing out of the stomach and up the esophagus. This is the tube that leads from the mouth to the stomach. Gastroesophageal reflux is the most common cause of vomiting in infants. In most cases reflux will resolve spontaneously between 12 and 18 months, but in some cases, medical management may be necessary.
Heartburn
According to Children's Hospital Boston, the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux in infants is heartburn. Older children and adults describe the pain as a burning chest pain that begins around the middle of the chest and moves upward through the neck and throat. Infants are only able to exhibit irritability and pain responses, such as crying and restlessness. The pain is most often more severe just after eating and can worsen if the baby lies down directly after eating.
Spitting Up
According to Mayo Clinic another common sign of reflux is spitting up. Most babies will spit up formula or breast milk on occasion with a burp. Mothers know this as a wet burp. But when these wet burps happen with most feedings or when there is more than a tablespoon or two that is returned, it is time to seek the advice of your child's pediatrician.
Coughing, Wheezing and Infection
According to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, a less common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux is coughing, wheezing and sometimes, lung infections. When small amounts of stomach acid enter the windpipe it is called aspiration. The windpipe and lungs are not designed to absorb stomach acid or food. These foreign particles set up a cascade of inflammation, wheezing and infection. Infections can include pneumonia or sinusitis when food provides a perfect medium for bacterial growth.
Sleep Habits
Sleeping habits will also be poor. Because pain and discomfort increase when the baby is lying flat your baby may awaken frequently, resist lying down or cry when they are on a flat surface. According to Children's Hospital Boston, poor sleeping habits may also result from a sore throat from the reflux while lying flat or from frequent coughing fits at night from aspiration.
Failure to Grow
According to Mayo Clinic infants who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux will also have difficulty gaining weight. Because they don't eat well and spit up foods these infants have trouble gaining weight and growing appropriately. At times, the fluid they spit up is brown or green indicating stomach acid. Because their stomach is painful they can also resist eating.
