Having a baby with reflux is hard. Not only for your baby but it can also negatively affect your whole family. It is overwhelming and heartbreaking to see your baby uncomfortable, in distress, and inconsolable. You may may be reading this and feeling helpless. And if you’re wondering if there is anything you can do help, I’m here to tell you, yes, you can help!

In this post I will help you understand what is ‘normal,’ common causes of reflux, and what you can do to address the root cause of your baby’s reflux.

What is Reflux?

Gastroesphageal Reflux (GER) is a physiological process that occurs in infants. It is defined as the passage of stomach contents into the esophagus, throat, mouth, and sometimes the nose, with or without accompanied regurgitation (spitting up).

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) however, is more severe, long lasting, and warrants digging deeper.

When is Reflux a concern?

Some babies will spit up very small volumes, without appearing bothered or uncomfortable. These baby’s are often referred to as ‘happy spitters.’ This can be normal as your baby’s digestive system is maturing.

If you’re trying to determine whether or not you should be concerned about your baby’s reflux, it can be helpful to consider the following 3 factors:

• Frequency: How often does your baby spit up? Once? Several times a day? Are you constantly needing to have a burp cloth at the ready?

• Discomfort: Does your baby seem to be exhibiting any signs of discomfort? Are they constantly fussing, grunting, hiccuping, burping, crying, and/or struggling with sleep?

• Presence of other Signs & Symptoms: Spit up is just one sign of reflux. In fact, some babies don’t spit up and they are still struggling!
  • Are you seeing any of these additional signs:
    • Excessively large volumes of spit up
    • Frequent hiccups or belching
    • Inconsolable crying, fussiness, colic
    • Arching back + pulling away
    • Frequent grunting, coughing
    • Slow weight gain
    • Excessive saliva, drooling, spit
    • Chronic congestion or stuffiness
    • Sleep disturbances
    • Only wants to be held upright /sleep upright

Answers to these questions, will help you determine if digging deeper is warranted.

Causes of Reflux

Reflux is a symptom, it is NOT a diagnosis. Some of the most common causes of reflux include:

• Prematurity
• Body Tension
• Food Intolerance &/or Allergy
• Gut Dysbiosis
• Poor Latch & Positioning
• Oversupply
• Overfeeding
• Swallowing Air aka Aerophagia
• Tethered Oral Tissues aka tongue/lip ties

So what should you do?

Ultimately, consulting with a skilled feeding therapist is best course of action to rule out the cause of the reflux. This might be an IBCLC, SLP, or OT who can complete a functional oral motor, feeding evaluation with you and your baby. They will review your medical/feeding history and observe feeding at the breast and/or bottle, and complete an oral motor examination. From there, you will create a care plan. Treatment for reflux often involves collaborative care and depending on what is identified in the evaluation additional referral recommendations may be provided.

If you have concerns about your baby, contact me today to book a consultation!