Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, has a variety of symptoms in children, and can be hard to diagnose. The specialists at MaineHealth offer state-of-the-art services to help understand your child’s symptoms and provide treatment.
What is GERD?
GERD happens when the flap or muscle at the end of the esophagus will not close properly. Food in the stomach can reflux or leak. This causes a burning sensation or “heartburn.”
What are the symptoms of GERD?
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Spitting up (past the first year)
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Wet burping
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Only eats small amounts or not at all
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Wheezing or choking
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Not gaining weight
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Spitting up
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Vomiting
Primary care is your first stop for care
Diagnosing GERD in children
The provider may ask that a record be kept of foods eaten to determine the triggers. In younger kids and babies a doctor may suggest some tests. These tests include:
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Barium Swallow
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Upper endoscopy
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24-hour impedance-probe study
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Milk scans
GERD treatment in children
Treatment of GERD will vary. It depends on how severe the GERD is for the child. Some treatments include:
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Medication
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Staying away from food that can make GERD worse, like spicy foods, citrus or tomato-based foods
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Losing weight
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Changing medications
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Adjusting the angle of the child’s bed
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