Infant acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux is actually a common problem in newborn babies especially those that are premature. This typically happens because the baby’s digestive system is still developing and their lower esophageal sphincter may not be fully developed. Acid reflux in infants typically resolves on its own by the time they are about a year to a year and a half old.

You will notice acid reflux symptoms in babies usually during feeding time an may not notice it at other times. Symptoms include frequent regurgitation shortly after meals, bad breath, recurrent coughing, frequently spitting up, sore throat, chest pain and lots of crying and general irritability.

Acid reflux can make things very uncomfortable for an infant but is typically not a serious or long term problem. One problem that might arise, however is that babies who have acid reflux may not want to eat once they associate it with the unpleasant burning sensation.

Infant acid reflux is as disturbing to the parents of a baby, as it is to the newborn. Diagnosis can be done by your pediatrician and is based on evaluating the symptoms along with a physical exam. It is important to get your baby to the doctor if he has acid reflux symptoms since respiratory problems could develop if the lungs inadvertently take in the food that is in the esophagus. It could also cause damage to the babies esophagus just as it can in an adult.

Treatment is usually consists of some basic changes in the way you feed your baby. Providing more frequent feedings of smaller doses can be one thing to try. Interrupting during a feeding to hold the baby upright or burp him can also help. Sometimes, medication may be recommended. Once your doctor makes a diagnosis you can discuss treatment options and how to implement them. Usually, infant acid reflux problems go away on their own once you change how you position your baby while he or she eats.