One of the worst things a parent can endure is watching their child experience pain and not knowing what to do about it. One of the most common issues causing infant pain is gastroesophageal reflux or GER. GER often happens when the sphincter muscle that tightens between the esophagus and stomach is not strong enough to keep their child’s food in their belly to be digested. The milk can then return to your baby’s throat and irritate it causing them pain. To have an idea what this feels like for the infant, remember a time when you had heartburn, this is exactly what is happening to them. Thankfully, an infant acid reflux pillow is now available to help relieve the symptoms of GER.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
- They have respiratory problems such as apnea, asthma, or labored breathing.
- Your infant is in severe pain, especially after their feeding time.
- They sleep poorly as they wake up several times during the night from the pain.
- Hiccupping and burping are both signs your child may have GER.
- Their throat is often sore or red.
- The infant will choke or gag a lot and can even vomit for hours after they finish eating.
- Your child may even refuse to eat or drink anything since they relate this action to feeling uncomfortable.
How Long Can Your Baby Suffer From GER?
Most infants will outgrow their reflux symptoms by the time they are one year of age. It may take some babies longer depending on how the severe the problem is and whether or not they have other medical issues complicating things. While your child is suffering from acid reflux, their doctor can provide both over-the-counter and prescription remedies that can help ease or eliminate their symptoms.
