“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Infant reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a common condition in which the contents of the stomach flow back up into the esophagus. This occurs because the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, which normally keeps stomach contents from flowing back up, is not yet fully developed in infants.
Infant reflux is usually not a cause for concern, as it is a normal part of a baby's development and typically resolves on its own by the time the baby is one year old. However, it can be uncomfortable for the baby and concerning for parents. The symptoms of infant reflux may include:
There are a number of strategies that can help manage infant reflux, including:
In some cases, medication may be recommended to manage more severe or persistent symptoms of infant reflux. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you are concerned about your baby's reflux, as they can provide guidance on the best strategies to manage the condition and rule out any underlying medical issues.
In infants, the ring of muscle between the esophagus and the stomach — the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — is not yet fully mature. That allows stomach contents to flow back up. Eventually, the LES will open only when your baby swallows and will remain tightly closed at other times, keeping stomach contents where they belong.
The factors that contribute to infant reflux are common in babies and often can't be avoided. These factors include:
Occasionally, infant reflux can be caused by more-serious conditions, such as:
For most babies, making some adjustments to feeding will ease infant reflux until it resolves on its own.
Reflux medications aren't recommended for children with uncomplicated reflux. However, a short-term trial of an acid-blocking medication — such as cimetidine (Tagamet HB) or famotidine (Pepcid AC) for infants ages 1 month to 1 year or omeprazole magnesium (Prilosec) for children age 1 year or older — might be recommended if your baby:
Rarely, the lower esophageal sphincter is surgically tightened to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This procedure is usually done only when reflux is severe enough to prevent growth or to interfere with your baby's breathing.