Babies, like grownups, might experience acid reflux. Babies likewise may endure it; the primary indicator being something we normally don’t think twice about – spitting up. Acid reflux is common in babies the first three months of life, but following that point it could be a reason for worry.
Reflux indicators in infants include: refusing the breast or bottle, or food if on solids; crying continuously for extended periods of time; consistent coughing or hiccups; spitting up; arching back while eating; not gaining weight sufficiently; dropping weight; the stomach being tender to the touch.
You must consult your baby’s pediatrician should you suspect your baby over three months suffers from acid reflux. There are some standard assessments, including ruling other problems out, to diagnose reflux in babies. If the symptoms are severe, far more invasive checks can be done, but are normally a last resort. If the pediatrician establishes that your infant does have reflux, there are medications that are harmless for babies. Some medications suppress the production of acid, some prevent the production of acid, and some neutralize any acid in the stomach. Prilosec and Tagamet both come in dosages or strengths for babies.
Some things you can do to help your baby’s reflux prior to turning to medications are: feed the child in a fairly upright position, hold child upright for at least thirty minutes after feeds, burp child adequately during and after feedings, do not overfeed baby, and lie child on his back with his head propped up. As soon as baby is 4 months old, adding rice to the diet plan may help minimize regurgitation. Mothers who breastfeed may try cutting out particular foods from her diet plan to see if that assists eliminate the reflux.
Babies with reflux are frequently tough work, and require a lot of patience, especially during crying periods when you know he or she is hurting. It is not always easy to convince family and buddies of the condition, since most think babies spit up, cry, and behave ornery until they’re toddlers anyway. Ask your partner for support and love your child and it will ultimately get much better – usually as the baby ages and his or her digestive system matures.
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