Source: bing.comAs a new mom, you may be wondering if your 7-month-old baby can develop reflux. The answer is yes, it is possible for babies to develop reflux at this age. Reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, is a common condition in babies where stomach contents come back up into the esophagus.
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What Causes Reflux in Babies?
There are several reasons why babies can develop reflux. One of the main reasons is that the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, which normally keeps food and stomach acid from flowing back up, is not fully developed yet. This means that when a baby’s stomach is full, there is more pressure on the muscle and it can open up, allowing stomach contents to flow back up.
Other factors that can contribute to reflux in babies include feeding too quickly, overfeeding, or feeding a baby while they are lying down. Certain medical conditions, such as a hiatal hernia or food allergies, can also cause reflux in babies.
What Are the Symptoms of Reflux in Babies?
If your baby has reflux, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Spitting up or vomiting frequently, especially after feeding
- Coughing or gagging during or after a feeding
- Fussiness or crying during or after a feeding
- Arching their back during or after a feeding
- Refusing to eat or eating less than usual
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight loss or poor weight gain
If you notice any of these symptoms in your baby, it is important to talk to your pediatrician to determine if reflux is the cause.
How Is Reflux Treated in Babies?
There are several ways to treat reflux in babies, depending on the severity of the symptoms. In some cases, your pediatrician may recommend changes to your baby’s feeding routine, such as feeding smaller amounts more frequently, burping your baby more often during feedings, or holding your baby upright for 30 minutes after a feeding.
If these changes do not improve your baby’s reflux symptoms, your pediatrician may recommend medication to reduce the amount of acid in your baby’s stomach or to help the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus close more tightly. Surgery is rarely needed for reflux in babies.
How Can You Help Your Baby Feel Better?
If your baby has reflux, there are several things you can do to help them feel more comfortable:
- Hold your baby upright for 30 minutes after a feeding
- Keep your baby upright during feedings
- Feed your baby smaller amounts more frequently
- Burp your baby more often during feedings
- Try different feeding positions
- Avoid laying your baby down immediately after a feeding
- Use a wedge pillow to elevate your baby’s head during sleep
- Speak with your pediatrician about medications or other treatments that may help
Reflux in babies can be a challenging condition to deal with, but with the right treatment and care, most babies with reflux will improve over time. If you are concerned about your baby’s symptoms, it is important to talk to your pediatrician to determine the best course of action.
The Bottom Line
Reflux in babies is a common condition that can develop at any age, including 7 months. The main causes of reflux in babies are an underdeveloped muscle at the bottom of the esophagus and feeding-related issues. If your baby has reflux, you may notice symptoms such as spitting up, coughing, fussiness, and weight loss. Treatment options include changes to your baby’s feeding routine, medication, and rarely, surgery. If you are concerned about your baby’s reflux symptoms, talk to your pediatrician to determine the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can reflux in babies be dangerous?
A: While reflux in babies is not usually dangerous, it can cause discomfort and other symptoms. In some cases, reflux can lead to complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, or failure to thrive. If you are concerned about your baby’s reflux symptoms, talk to your pediatrician.
Q: Can breastfeeding cause reflux in babies?
A: Breastfeeding is not a direct cause of reflux in babies, but certain feeding habits, such as feeding too quickly or overfeeding, can contribute to reflux symptoms. If you are breastfeeding and your baby has reflux, talk to your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for advice on how to adjust your feeding routine.
Q: How long does reflux last in babies?
A: Reflux in babies usually improves on its own as the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus develops and feeding habits are adjusted. Most babies outgrow reflux by the time they are 1 year old.
Q: Can reflux in babies cause breathing problems?
A: Reflux in babies can cause coughing or gagging, which can lead to breathing issues in some cases. If you notice that your baby is having trouble breathing or is wheezing, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Q: Is it safe to use medication to treat reflux in babies?
A: In most cases, medication is safe and effective for treating reflux in babies. However, it is important to talk to your pediatrician about the risks and benefits of any medication before giving it to your baby.