Acid Reflux in Children
and Treatment Challenges

In older children, the causes of acid reflux are the same as those seen in adults. Anything that causes the LES to relax or anything that reduces the pressure below the LES can cause acid reflux. They include obesity, overeating, certain foods, beverages and medications.

The symptoms of acid reflux in children are masked or are similar to those from other conditions. They may be as follows:

·         Abdominal pain above the belly button

·         Burning sensation in the esophagus

·         Refusing food or eating only a few bites despite hunger

·         Gagging or choking

·         Poor weight gain or weight loss

·         Bad breath

·         Constantly runny nose and frequent sore throat

·         Sinus infections and respiratory problems (such as bronchitis, wheezing, asthma)

·         Night-time cough

·         Poor sleep, frequent waking

·         Frequent ear infections and/or ear congestion

·         Excessive salivation or drooling

If acid reflux is diagnosed in children, the doctor will most likely recommend lifestyle changes first. Some lifestyle changes are listed below.

·         Elevate the head of the child's bed using bricks or blocks. This will not only lower the pressure on the LES but also ensure a good night's sleep which in itself will reduce stress and increase the well-being of the child. A wedge pillow is also useful.

·         Keep the child upright for at least two hours after eating.

·         Serve several small meals throughout the day, rather than three large meals.

·         Limit foods and beverages that seem to worsen the child's reflux. These include mainly fried, high-sugar, and spicy foods as well as carbonated beverages and chocolates.

·         Limit watching television and encourage the child to get regular exercise.

·         Avoid non-steroidal and aspirin-containing medications.

Only when these lifestyle modifications do not work, medications are considered. Most medications suitable for adults may be prescribed, especially proton pump inhibitors. With any childhood condition, lifestyle changes are always considered first because a child should live as normal and medication-free a life as possible. Even in children, acid reflux is a complicated disease with varying causes and symptoms. Just treating the symptoms defeats the very aim of the therapy. The holistic approach, therefore, will not only relieve symptoms but also prevent the recurrences forever. This is because the holistic approach treats the body as a whole and tries to reach deeper and identify where the real problem is and then treat the symptoms.