Acid Reflux Symptoms In Infants

Acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux) is a medical term used to describe a condition where food and stomach acid back up into the esophagus. At the bottom of the esophagus is a ring of muscles called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES opens and closes to allow food to enter the stomach. After meals, the LES opens to release gas. However, more than just gas may escape. Stomach contents may flow back into the esophagus and out the mouth. What parents see is the infant spitting up, vomiting can also occur.

Acid reflux can occur during or after a feeding. It can also occur when babies cough or cry as well. Acid reflux occurs in the first three months of age in more than half of all infants. It is quite common and is generally called ’spitting up’. However, most babies do not need treatment. Acid reflux symptoms usually disappear between 12 to 18 months of age. For a very small number of babies the symptoms can be quite severe. In these cases, medical treatment is required.

Common acid reflux symptoms in infants: