9-29-09

Pediatric GERD

Gastroesophogal reflux disease is a medical condition that is common in people of all ages, even babies and children.

Gastroesophogal reflux occurs when stomach contents reflux, or back up, into the esophagus during or after a meal.  Dr. Terry Hatch, professor of pediatrics at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says gastroesophogal reflux begins in infancy when most infants spit up after feeding.  The majority of these babies are healthy and usually outgrow the condition.

SOUND BITE:  “All relatively healthy term babies will spit some, but both pre-term babies and term babies and older infants and toddlers can have an amount of regurgitation of food materials that get them into difficulties.  For example, with heartburn and respiratory problems or the inability to take or retain sufficient nutrition to grow well.” 

Dr. Hatch says when reflux occurs frequently and is severe, it can develop into gastroesophogal reflux disease or GERD.  In children, GERD can cause troublesome symptoms or complications such as failure to gain weight, bleeding, respiratory problems or tummy aches.  He says some conditions may bring on GERD symptoms.

SOUND BITE:  “. . . being overweight can make reflux a more problematic situation.  There are a number of other medical conditions which could be associated with or possible aggravate a reflux type problem.  Certainly eating excessive large amounts or diets that are excessively high in fat can make reflux somewhat worse.”

Dr. Hatch says infants and children with GERD can be helped first with feeding and lifestyle changes or possibly medication.  If symptoms are severe or persist you should contact your primary care physician or pediatrician.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.