The Realities of Infant Reflux

Reflux as a Symptom, Not a Diagnosis

Most babies experience some form of reflux. It occurs due to an immature sphincte, causing milk to come back up. While this is generally not a significant problem and usually resolves by six months to one year of age, it can cause concern for parents. Reflux is typically a benign condition in most infants.

GERD: A Different Story

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a more severe form of reflux affecting a very small percentage of babies. GERD can cause major health issues, such as burning of the esophagus due to acidic stomach contents, feeding aversions, and difficulty gaining weight. These babies often require medication, but it’s crucial to note that medication should not be the first line of treatment for typical reflux.

Evaluating the Diagnosis

If your baby has been labeled with reflux but is gaining weight, but seems fussy or has other symptoms, medication might not be the answer. What should be considered instead is a thorough feeding assessment. Here’s why:

The Importance of a Thorough Feeding Assessment

Latch Issues

One of the primary causes of reflux-like symptoms is a shallow latch. If a baby mixes air with milk due to a poor latch, it can increase the likelihood of spitting up. Ensuring that your baby has a deep latch can make a significant difference.

Oral Anatomy

Babies with oral restrictions may have difficulty transferring milk efficiently, leading to increased air intake and more frequent spit-ups. Identifying and addressing any anatomical issues is crucial and can be a game changer in your feeding journey.

Allergy Concerns

Food allergies can also contribute to spitting up. For instance, a cow’s milk allergy can make a baby majorly unsettled and lead to symptoms like eczema, poor weight gain, spitting up, inability to sleep without being held, and feeding aversions. Ruling out allergies is an essential part of the feeding assessment. If we take out the allergen out of your baby’s diet, the symptoms will improve.

Supply and Feeding Techniques

An abundant milk supply can cause a baby to ingest a lot of foremilk and air, resulting in frothy green stools and increased spit-up. Evaluating and managing milk supply is vital. Your baby won’t be able to feed calmly at the breast, which causes spitting up, and they also will be irritable and unsettled. Fixing this (how depends on age) will settle your baby.

Moving Beyond the Label of Reflux

It’s important to dig deeper than just labeling a baby with reflux. By addressing potential underlying issues through a thorough feeding assessment, you can potentially alleviate the need to hold your baby upright after every feed and improve their overall comfort and your well-being.

The Takeaway

Parents are often overwhelmed when dealing with a baby who constantly spits up. If your baby is gaining weight but exhibiting symptoms of reflux, consider seeking a thorough feeding assessment. This will help identify and address underlying issues, providing relief for both you and your baby. My global team of nurses offer a newborn package which includes a thorough feeding assessment and one month of support. It is worth it, and a game changer. Often covered by insurance.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I hope you found the information helpful. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments. I appreciate everyone who follows and participates in this community. Remember, even on challenging days, you are exactly what your baby needs.

Stay empowered and keep advocating for the best care for your little one.

Sending you so much love,

Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC