Reflux in Babies: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods
Seen in babies reflux, is one of the health problems that parents worry about the most. This condition is defined as the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus of babies and usually goes away on its own between 12-18 months. Experts say that reflux in babies is often physiological indicates that it is a condition. However, in some cases, reflux can lead to more serious health problems.
Main Causes of Reflux
The main causes of gastroesophageal reflux in infants include:
- Underdevelopment of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter: Because babies' digestive systems are not yet fully developed, the lower esophageal sphincter may not be strong enough.
- Liquid Based Nutrition: Feeding babies mostly liquid food can cause the stomach contents to leak back easily.
- Staying in a lying position for a long time: Babies who remain in a lying position for a long time have the risk of stomach acid leaking into the esophagus.
- Small Stomach Capacity: Since babies have limited stomach capacity, reflux can occur even with small amounts of food intake.
- Early birth: Premature babies may have poorer reflex control.
The second reason to use the cow's milk protein allergy and overfeeding are other factors that trigger reflux. These situations can lead to inflammation in the digestive system of babies.
Reflux Symptoms in Babies
Symptoms of reflux in infants usually manifest themselves in the following ways:
- Frequent Vomiting: Frequent vomiting in babies is the most obvious symptom of reflux.
- Food Coming to Your Mouth: Babies can bring food back into their mouths.
- Unrest: Reflux can cause babies to become restless, which can affect their sleep patterns.
- Weight Loss: Babies not gaining enough weight is a sign of the severity of reflux.
- Crying and Difficulty Swallowing: Babies may have difficulty swallowing, which can lead to frequent crying.
Severe vomiting, weight loss and constant restlessness are important symptoms that parents should pay attention to. Such situations definitely require consultation with a specialist.
Treatment Methods
In the treatment of reflux in babies, first of all, Nutrition habits is of great importance. The following methods are recommended to reduce reflux:
- Feeding Little and Frequently: Feeding babies in smaller amounts but more frequently reduces the pressure on the stomach.
- Vertical Position During Feeding: Babies should be seated upright during feeding and kept in an upright position after feeding.
- Gas Removal: After feeding, burping should not be neglected, which reduces stomach discomfort.
- Breastfeeding: If possible, it is recommended that babies be breastfed.
In babies with suspected reflux, additional tests, such as endoscopy and pH measurement, may be used to confirm the diagnosis. These tests are important in determining the cause of reflux.
Babies at High Risk of Reflux
While many babies are at risk for reflux, certain groups are at higher risk. These groups include:
- Premature Babies: Since their development is not yet complete, their risk of reflux is high.
- Low Birth Weight Babies: Babies with low birth weight may have weaker digestive systems.
- Overfed Babies: Overfeeding can exceed stomach capacity and cause reflux.
- Babies With Cow's Milk Protein Allergy: Inflammation due to allergies can trigger reflux.
- Babies with Neurological Developmental Delay: The risk of reflux increases in babies with developmental problems.
Situations When You Should See a Doctor
Babies who show symptoms of reflux should definitely consult a doctor, especially in the following cases:
- Frequent Vomiting: Frequent and severe vomiting is a condition that requires attention.
- Not Gaining Enough Weight: Situations where babies do not gain weight may indicate health problems.
- Blood in Vomit: This is a situation that requires immediate intervention.
Early diagnosis and treatment are extremely important for the health and development of babies. Otherwise, untreated reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and this situation can lead to serious health problems.
The Consequences of Untreated Reflux
Untreated reflux can lead to a variety of health problems in babies, including:
- Inadequate Weight Gain: This may negatively affect the growth and development of babies.
- Irritation in the Esophagus: Stomach acid leaking into the esophagus causes irritation and inflammation.
- Respiratory Diseases: Reflux can cause infections in the respiratory tract.
- Sleeping disorders: Disturbing symptoms can disrupt babies' sleep patterns.
In conclusion, reflux in babies is a health problem that needs to be taken into consideration. Parents should monitor the symptoms and consult a specialist doctor when necessary.
