Reflux is a common condition in babies that usually gets better on its own. However, there are some things you can try to ease your babys reflux:
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Feeding changes: Try smaller, more frequent feedings. Feed your baby a little bit less than usual if you're bottle-feeding, or cut back a little on nursing time. Give formula-fed babies smaller feeds more often. Burp your baby regularly during feeds. If your baby is at least 4 months old, ask your pediatrician about adding a small amount of infant cereal to their bottle to thicken the formula.
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Positioning: Feed your baby in an upright position. Then, hold your baby in a sitting position for 30 minutes after feeding. Gravity can help stomach contents stay where they belong. Hold your baby upright for 10 minutes after a feed. Place your baby on their back to sleep.
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Medications: Reflux medications aren't typically used to treat uncomplicated reflux in children. But your child’s health care provider may recommend an acid-blocking medication for several weeks or months if your baby has poor weight gain, refuses to feed, or has an inflamed esophagus. If feeding changes do not help enough, the doctor may recommend medicines to treat GERD. However, these medications are not approved by the FDA for GERD in infants, and the doctor will only suggest medicine if your baby still has regular GERD symptoms and other feeding changes have been tried.
Remember, if your baby is vomiting but is otherwise happy and growing well, there is no need to worry. However, if your baby is not improving after trying things to ease reflux, is older than 1 and still has reflux, or is not gaining weight or is losing weight, see a GP. Also, call your GP or 111 if you have any other concerns about your baby.
