Infant reflux, also referred to as “spitting up” or gastroesophagel reflux, is a common thing that every parent experiences with their new baby, especially in the first few months of age.
Reflux occurs when contents of the stomach flow backwards from the stomach into the esophagus causing the baby to spit up. But why does this happen? There is a valve between the esophagus (the long tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach) and the stomach. This valve is called the lower esophageal spincter. In infants this is not fully developed, and reflux can occur. Once it does fully develop reflux should resolve.
Most cases of reflux resolve on their own, or with the help of some changes in the home:
Other treatments your doctor may suggest are:
Make sure to contact a doctor is you see any of the following in your infant is:
Reflux can be worrisome to parents. If your baby is otherwise healthy, reflux is normal and you usually don’t need to worry. Be prepared, and keep some burp cloths handy and be ready for spitting up!
– Dr. Christina Cesareo and Dr. G Paul Dempsey
[Featured image: Christina Rutz]
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