Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Children

Common Symptoms

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children is a condition where the stomach contents flow back into the esophagus.

Here are some common symptoms of GERD in children:

• Heartburn: This is a painful, burning feeling in the middle of the chest, behind the breastbone. It starts near the bottom part of the breastbone and can move up towards the throat. Heartburn is more common in older children and teens than in young children.
• Regurgitation: This occurs when stomach contents come back up through the esophagus and into the throat or mouth. It may cause a child to taste food or stomach acid. Vomiting may also occur along with regurgitation.
• Nausea: Some children with GERD may experience feelings of nausea.
• Chest or upper abdominal pain: These pains may be present in children with more severe GERD.
• Difficulty swallowing: Some children may have problems swallowing or experience pain while swallowing.
• Symptoms in the mouth, throat, or lungs: GERD can cause complications in these areas, leading to symptoms such as cough, hoarseness, or wheezing.

When it comes to treating or reducing these symptoms, there are several options:

• Lifestyle changes: Making certain changes to a child's diet and habits can help reduce GERD symptoms. These may include:
  • Avoiding trigger foods that can worsen reflux, such as spicy or fatty foods
  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals
  • Avoiding lying down immediately after eating. This also includes infants-keep them upright for at least 30 minutes after feeding. Elevating the head of the bed during sleep
  • Feeding modifications: For infants with GERD, doctors may recommend thickening their formula with rice cereal or using specialized formulas that are less likely to cause reflux. Breastfeeding mothers can try adjusting their diet to see if certain foods are triggering their baby's reflux.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight and encouraging regular physical activity.
• Medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help manage GERD symptoms. These medications can include:
  • Antacids: These can help neutralize stomach acid and provide temporary relief.
  • H2 blockers: These medications reduce the production of stomach acid and can provide longer-lasting relief.
  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs also reduce stomach acid production and are often used for more severe cases of GERD.
• Surgery: In rare cases where lifestyle changes and medications are not effective, surgery may be considered as a treatment option. Surgical procedures aim to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (the muscle that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus) or repair any structural problems.
• Referral to specialists: In more severe cases of GERD that do not respond to lifestyle changes and medications, doctors may refer children to specialists such as pediatric gastroenterologists or pediatric surgeons for further evaluation and treatment options.

It's important for parents and caregivers to work closely with healthcare professionals to create a personalized treatment plan for managing GERD symptoms in children. With the right care, most children with GERD can find relief and live healthy lives.

Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.

Warning Signs

If your child is experiencing symptoms of GERD, it's important to know when to contact a doctor or seek medical help. Here are some warning signs that indicate you should reach out to a healthcare professional:

• Difficulty breathing: If your child is having trouble breathing along with their GERD symptoms, it's important to seek urgent medical help.
• Persistent refusal to eat or drink: If your child consistently refuses to eat or drink, it could be a sign of a more serious health condition related to GERD. Contact a doctor for further evaluation.
• Frequent, forceful, or projectile vomiting: Excessive vomiting can be a concerning symptom and may require medical attention.
• Bloody vomit or black/tarry stool: If your child vomits blood or if their stool appears black and tarry, it could indicate bleeding in the digestive tract. This is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention.
• Signs of dehydration: Watch out for signs of dehydration in your child, such as a lack of tears, infrequent or dark urine, and in babies, a soft spot on the top of their head. Dehydration can occur if your child is not able to keep down enough fluids due to GERD.

Remember, these warning signs indicate that your child may need medical intervention beyond home remedies or over-the-counter medications. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide appropriate guidance and treatment options tailored to your child's specific needs.