Reflux and Infants
How to treat reflux in premature and low birth weight children
Looking at reflux in premature and low birth weight infants and how to treat it simply and without medication or formula swapping
All infants spend some time spitting up and it is usually not a sign of reflux or anything more than the infant maybe taking in more food than their little tummy could handle at that feeding. In some infants, and many low birth weight and premature infants parents have to deal with more than just spitting up. This is when you need to consider that your child may be suffering from reflux.
Reflux is characterized by some of the following symptoms:
- Painful blasts of crying (more than the usual baby cries)
- Frequent spitting up (but not always)
- Inconsolable bouts of abdominal pain
- Painful bursts of nightwaking
- Fussiness, particularly after eating
- Arching or writhing as if in pain
- Frequent, unexplained bouts of wheezing and chest infections and episodes of apnea
- Sour breath; throaty noises
- Formula being ejected from nostrils
- Projectile vomiting
After much web research there are many ways to curb the number of reflux episodes that your child has by following a few simple steps that will ease your baby's pain and also make for happier and easier feedings.
Change your baby before the feeding begins and make sure the diaper is not too tight on the abdomen. Feeding your baby in at least a 45 degree angle, but not sitting straight as this will compress the stomach and can lead to instances of vomiting.
Burp frequently, as much as every ounce and make sure you burp using the over-the-shoulder, rather than the sitting method. The sitting method can also lead to stomach compression which is why it is not recommended. When your child has completed the feeding, which may take longer than you are used to, hold the baby in a horizontal, or at least 30 degree angled position for at least half-hour after feeding to allow gravity to play its role.
Babies with reflux will most likely be more comfortable sleeping at a 30 degree angle, which can be accomplished by propping a crib mattress and also by allowing napping in a car seat or other angled chair during the day.
Following these few simple steps, while they may increase feeding time, will make the time more enjoyable (and less messy) for both you and your baby
