If you’ve ever had an infant with acid reflux, you know how exhausting and emotional the experience can be. The constant crying, sleepless nights, and uncertainty can take a toll on both you and your baby. As a first-time parent, I had no idea that acid reflux in infants—also known as infant GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)—was even something to worry about. It took weeks to get answers. Along the way, I learned that reflux can vary greatly in severity and presentation.
Let’s break down what reflux is, how to recognize the symptoms, and explore natural remedies and medical treatments for infant reflux.
What is Acid Reflux in Infants?
Infant reflux, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, leading to discomfort or spitting up. It is honestly pretty common, especially mild cases. Reflux symptoms appear during the newborn phase (as early as 2 – 3 weeks). Many infants typically have their acid reflux symptoms resolved between 12 to 18 months, but not all. Some infants will continue to struggle with reflux as they grow and age.
For more severe cases, recognizing symptoms is incredibly important. Frequent vomiting, irritability during or after feedings, coughing, arching of the back, and hours of inconsolable crying can all be contributing factors to reflux.
What is Silent Reflux?
Silent reflux in infants is less obvious, but it still poses similar discomfort. It can be difficult to diagnose but similar symptoms are present. Many infants with silent reflux will rarely spit up. That can cause even more discomfort than typical reflux.
What Causes Acid Reflux in Infants?
Newborn reflux symptoms can be attributed to a lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Basically, some infants’ LES isn’t functioning properly or effectively because it was never fully developed. That means their stomach contents are able to flow back into the esophagus which can create a burning sensation or feeling. Overfeeding and improper positioning after feeding, can cause reflux to flair up.
Dietary factors, like dairy or soy intolerance, can also play a factor in aggravating reflux symptoms. Certain formulas or foods can really irritate an infant’s digestive tract. Every infant is different, so figuring out what triggers reflux in your child is key. It does take some trial and error.
What is the Treatment for Acid Reflux in Infants?
Effective treatment for reflux in infants varies from case to case. Ultimately, as we discussed above, many infants will naturally grow out of their reflux the older they get. Some infants benefit from simple and natural interventions. Other infants would benefit from dietary changes or potentially medication (if you are comfortable with that route).
Elevation: Elevating your child’s head during feedings and holding them upright for 20-30 minutes afterward can help naturally relieve some reflux symptoms.
Smaller Feedings: Smaller more frequent feedings can prevent an overloaded stomach, which can trigger reflux.
Burping: Frequent burping during feeds can be a huge help to reduce stomach pressure (which would lessen the chances of reflux flaring up).
Professional Consultation: Ultimately, you may find that your child is in extreme discomfort no matter what you do. If your child is unable to settle and cries for hours on end, you should definitely seek medical advice (via pediatrician or gastroenterologist). When considering medication, you should do what is best for you, your family, and ultimately what you are comfortable with. In some cases, medications may be recommended (proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers) especially if diagnosed GERD in present.
Navigating Acid Infant Reflux
Understanding and managing acid reflux in infants can be incredibly difficult. Please contact your pediatrician if you are concerned about your infant’s symptoms. With the right infant reflux management strategies in place, you, as the parent or caregiver, can focus on enjoying the newborn stage, instead of fearing it.
Sleep Shore Sleep Consulting
Is your little one having difficulty self-soothing for naps and nights? If your child is unable to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up at a normal time, it may be time to consider sleep training. Sleep Shore offers personalized solutions for each unique sleeping situation to get your little one on track- whether they’re a newborn, infant, or toddler. We also offer in home sleep training services in the Boston, Massachusetts, Central Michigan (Midland, Clare, Mt. Pleasant) and Traverse City, Michigan. Sleep training offers babies and children with the skills to fall asleep on their own so they can wake up feeling more well-rested- and in turn, you’ll feel more energized, too! See what this mama had to say about our sleep services below:
“I cannot express enough how life-changing it has been to work with Molly at Sleep Shore. Before hiring Molly, my baby was only napping in her swing and was waking up every 2-3 hours in the middle of the night. Bedtime was always such a struggle. The anxiety of going out was overwhelming. I knew I had to rely on the swing for naps. I felt stuck in this cycle of frustration and exhaustion.
After I hired Molly, everything changed. Molly’s expertise and gentle approach helped my baby transition from the swing to napping in her crib for 1 to 2-hour stretches. We completely eliminated the swing! Not only did my baby start sleeping better during the day, but she also began sleeping through the night!
I now feel like I have my life back and time to myself again. I can actually enjoy spending time with my baby without feeling constantly tired and frustrated. Molly’s support and guidance have been invaluable. I am so grateful for the positive impact she’s had on our sleep routine. If you’re struggling with sleep issues, I highly recommend Molly at Sleep Shore!”
Mom of 4-Month-Old