Acid Reflux in Babies
Acid reflux in babies is common, especially in the first year of life. It happens when milk or stomach contents flow back into the food pipe (esophagus), often causing spit-up, discomfort, or feeding problems. Most cases are mild and improve as the baby grows.
🚨 Seek Urgent Medical Care
Get immediate help if your baby has reflux with:
- Green, yellow, or bloody vomit.
- Choking, breathing pauses, or bluish lips.
- Poor weight gain or refusal to feed.
- Severe, inconsolable crying with stiff body.
📞 Contact Your Pediatrician
Speak to a doctor if reflux:
- Is frequent and causes discomfort.
- Interferes with feeding or sleeping.
- Persists beyond 12–18 months.
- Is associated with eczema or wheezing.
Common Symptoms & What They Mean
| Symptom | Possible Explanation |
|---|---|
| Frequent spit-up or vomiting | Normal infant reflux due to immature valve. |
| Crying or arching during feeds | Acid irritation of the esophagus. |
| Hiccups, coughing after feeds | Milk backing up into the throat. |
| Poor weight gain | More severe reflux (GERD). |
Why Acid Reflux Happens in Babies
Immature LES: The lower esophageal sphincter is weak in infants.
Liquid Diet: Milk flows back more easily than solid food.
Overfeeding: A full stomach increases reflux.
Air Swallowing: Leads to pressure and spit-up.
GERD: More severe, persistent reflux with complications.
Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy: Can mimic or worsen reflux.
How Doctors Diagnose Reflux
Clinical History
Most cases are diagnosed based on symptoms and growth.
Growth Monitoring
Checks weight gain and feeding adequacy.
pH or Impedance Test
Measures acid reflux in severe or unclear cases.
Endoscopy (Rare)
Used only if complications are suspected.
