Reflux in Babies and Toddlers

Gastroesophageal reflux, or GER, is a common condition. Sometimes referred to as "spitting up," GER affects about half of young infants. It peaks between 4 and 5 months and usually resolves by 14 months of age. Babies that have GER spit up shortly after eating. This happens when stomach contents return up the esophagus and into and out of the mouth.

Cause of GER in Infants

Because digestive systems are immature in newborns, GER is common. Large feedings and laying babies down after they eat can make them more likely to experience GER. The digestive system matures between 6 and 12 months of age. This leads to an improvement in GER symptoms for many babies.

In most cases, reflux is mild and normal. If you have a happy baby who is eating and growing, there’s no reason to be concerned. While severe GER is less common, it may be a sign of a more serious condition. Speak with your pediatrician if your baby is not gaining weight or repeatedly refuses to eat.

Contact your child’s pediatrician immediately if your baby:

• Begins vomiting forcefully (projectile vomiting)
• Spits up fluid that is green or yellow or contains blood
• Has difficulty breathing after vomiting
• Shows signs of dehydration (such as having dry diapers or extreme fussiness)

Reducing Reflux

The following tips may help reduce or manage reflux in your baby:

• Burp your baby after feedings, as well as at natural intervals during feedings.
• Keep your baby upright for 20 to 30 minutes after feeding. This may result in less reflux than when babies lay down immediately after feeding.
• Babies may be sensitive to foods a breastfeeding mother eats or drinks. If you breastfeed, you may avoid certain foods to rule out a sensitivity for your baby. This should only be for a short period of time. Avoiding foods is not recommended as a way to prevent food allergies.
• If you use infant formula, talk with your baby’s doctor about switching to a thickened formula or to a specialty formula.

What to Expect as Your Baby Grows

Most babies grow out of reflux. As they develop, their gastrointestinal tract matures. Check with your baby’s doctor to monitor their weight and ensure your baby is hydrated. Your baby’s doctor can help determine if your baby is experiencing more than GER.