Understanding Reflux
Reflux (GER) is when stomach contents come back up into the esophagus, causing spitting up in babies or heartburn in older children. While normal reflux is common and harmless, GERD occurs when reflux causes complications like poor weight gain, feeding problems, or pain.
Typical Characteristics
- Peaks around 4 months, typically resolves by 12 months
- "Happy spitters" have normal reflux without discomfort
- GERD involves pain, feeding refusal, or growth concerns
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage reflux at home when:
- Baby spits up without effort or discomfort ("happy spitter")
- Baby is content after feeds and gaining weight
- No bile (green), blood, or forceful vomiting
- Older children have mild heartburn without weight loss
How to Treat at Home
For Babies Under 12 Months (with Precautions)
- Feed smaller amounts more frequently
- Keep upright for 30-60 minutes after feeds
- Avoid leaving baby flat immediately after feeding
- Burp frequently during and after feeds
- Use slow flow nipples for bottle-fed infants
- Try one breast per feed if supply is high
- Avoid: Tight diapers/waistbands, jostling or active play after feeds
For Children 1 Year and Older
- Avoid trigger foods: acidic, spicy, fatty foods, chocolate
- Offer smaller, frequent meals
- No meals 2-3 hours before bedtime
- Elevate head of bed slightly
When to Contact Poppins
📱 Contact us again when:
- Symptoms are not improving after 2-3 weeks
- New or worsening symptoms
- You have concerns about weight gain or feeding
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment for:
- Poor weight gain or signs of dehydration
- Feeding refusal developing
- Symptoms persist beyond 12 months
- Medication evaluation may be needed
When to Go to the ER
🚨 Seek immediate emergency care if your child is:
- Vomiting green (bile) or blood
- A newborn with projectile vomiting
- Having breathing problems or unusual sleepiness (lethargy)
- Experiencing severe pain or persistent vomiting
- Passing black stools or vomiting blood
Good News for Parents
- Most babies with reflux are "happy spitters" who don't need medicine
- Reflux usually gets better by your baby's first birthday
- Your child can go to daycare or school as long as they feel okay
Trust your instincts - if something doesn't feel right, reach out. Need help? Our medical team is available 24/7 through text.
