Acid Reflux In Children
More often than not adults are the ones that have to deal with acid reflux. But it is possible that some infants will suffer from the symptoms as well. However, rare it is some of these infants may continue to have these symptoms as they get older. It is important to learn how to spot the symptoms of acid reflux in children and to know the methods used to treat it.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
- Chest pain
- Stomach pain above the belly button
- Burning feeling in the esophagus
- Picky about what foods they eat or won’t eat at all
- Gagging and choking
- Bad breath
- Sore throat
- Runny nose all the time
- Sinus infections
- Wheezing or other respiratory problems
- Coughing at night
- Dry cough constantly
- Hoarseness
- Does not sleep well
- Ear infections or congestion all the time
- Excessive drooling
- Pressure on the stomach
Treatment of GERD for Kids
If you believe that any or most of these symptoms pertains to your child and that they could be suffering from acid reflux than the first thing that you should do is make an appointment with your doctor. Let them examine the child and diagnose the problem. Based on the child’s age and symptoms they will be able to determine the proper treatment. Usually the doctor will suggest the following:
Acid suppressors – which will help to suppress the amount of acid production that is in the stomach. The most common of these is Pepcid, Zantac, Tagamet, and Axid.
Antacids are used to neutralize the stomach acid. The most common of these include Mylanta, Tums, and Maalox.
Acid Blockers are used to help completely block the amount of acid that is being produced inside of the stomach. The most common of these include Nexium, Aciphex, Prilosec, and Prevacid.