Newborn spit-up is perfectly normal, especially after a feeding. Acid reflux is a more persistent type of spit-up that can also include several other symptoms. Many babies will outgrow acid reflux, especially once sitting up is mastered. When acid reflux causes complications, a baby may be prescribed medication to reduce acid production. Other treatment methods may include keeping the newborn upright after a meal or burping more frequently during a feeding. Newborn check-ups will help a pediatrician recognize the signs of acid reflux and prevent complications before they develop.
Weight Gain
A pediatrician monitors newborn weight gain at well-baby check ups. When a newborn has acid reflux, she may not gain weight at a healthy rate. In addition to heavy spitting up, the newborn may refuse to eat to avoid the pain or discomfort she experiences with her condition.
Spit-up
Spitting up greater than two tablespoons at one time, especially several hours after a feeding, may be a sign of acid reflux. Parents may mistake a normal amount of spit-up as a large amount because it is coming from a small baby. Caregivers can learn how to differentiate between a normal and a large amount by pouring a measured 2 tablespoons of colored liquid onto the kitchen counter. This visual exercise can help parents realize when the spit-up truly is a large amount. Projectile vomiting of the stomach contents can be another sign of acid reflux. This type of spit-up may fly as far as 6 inches or more from the baby. This can be a frightening experience for parents.
A newborn may or may not cry persistently with acid reflux. There may be more pain in the chest and stomach, but it is possible for the newborn to be a "happy spitter." Excessive crying, waking throughout the night or gassiness are potential symptoms of acid reflux.
X-ray
BabyCenter.com explains that a doctor may order X-rays of the upper digestive tract to see if persistent acid reflux has caused damage to the newborn's esophagus. This type of X-ray consists of using a chalky substance to highlight certain areas of the digestive tract on the X-ray. This can be an uncomfortable process for the newborn and parents, but it is the best way for the doctor to make treatment recommendations to heal any damage caused by the acid. In addition to a damaged esophagus, a newborn may have some respiratory symptoms, says KeepKidsHealthy.com. This is due to the infant inhaling formula or breast milk into the lungs. The result can be a persistent cough, wheezing or pneumonia.
