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Gastro-Esophageal Reflux (GER/GERD) in Children
What is Gastro-Esophageal Reflux (GER)?
Gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) occurs when stomach contents flow back into the food pipe (esophagus). It is a common condition in infants and children, especially during the first year of life. In most cases, this reflux is mild and resolves on its own with time.
However, when reflux becomes frequent, painful, or leads to complications such as poor weight gain, feeding refusal, or respiratory symptoms, it is known as Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and requires medical attention.
Common Symptoms of GERD in Children
- Frequent vomiting or spitting up
- Irritability or excessive crying (especially after feeding)
- Refusal to eat or difficulty feeding
- Poor weight gain or growth issues
- Coughing, wheezing, or recurrent chest infections
- Heartburn or chest pain in older children
- Bad breath or sour taste in the mouth
Causes of Reflux in Children
- Immature digestive system (especially in infants)
- Lying down immediately after feeding
- Overfeeding or feeding large volumes at once
- Certain underlying conditions (e.g., hiatal hernia, neurological disorders)
When to Seek Medical Advice
If your child shows signs of discomfort, poor feeding, frequent vomiting, or breathing issues, it's important to consult a pediatric gastroenterologist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.
Diagnosis
Reflux is often diagnosed based on symptoms and clinical examination. In some cases, further investigations may be recommended, such as:
- pH monitoring
- Upper GI endoscopy
- Barium swallow X-ray
- Esophageal impedance study
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the child’s age:
Lifestyle and Feeding Modifications
- Smaller, more frequent feedings
- Keeping the baby upright after feeding
- Thickening milk/formula (as advised)
- Avoiding trigger foods in older children
Medications (if lifestyle changes don’t help)
- Acid-reducing medicines (H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors)
- Prokinetic agents in selected cases
Surgical Intervention
In rare and severe cases, a surgical procedure called fundoplication may be recommended.
Expert Care You Can Trust
At my clinic, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children with reflux and other gastrointestinal concerns. With specialized training in pediatric gastroenterology, I focus on accurate diagnosis, child-friendly care, and long-term management.