Irritability, rejection of food and low weight gain? Your child may have Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
It is common for babies to have regurgitation, popularly known as "gulping": the return of milk to the mouth after feeding, at the time of feeding or even some time later. Although it is an uncomfortable situation, causing concern for the family, simple regurgitation does not pose any risk to children and should be interpreted as a result of the digestive system not having matured. However, when the level of this symptom is high and brings associated problems, it is necessary to investigate, as it could mean Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
You need to understand the difference between regurgitation and reflux and identify when it becomes a disease. Dr. Fábio Ancona Lopez, pediatrician and specialist in infant nutrition, explains: "Gastroesophageal reflux is the passage of gastric contents into the esophagus. In this case, it may or may not reach the mouth and pharynx. Regurgitation, on the other hand, is the passage of gastric contents into the pharynx and mouth with exteriorization outwards. To put it simply: regurgitation means that the reflux has been visible, while reflux without it may not be identified.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is the condition in which uncomfortable symptoms and/or complications occur, such as irritability, rejection of food, difficulty gaining weight, often accompanied by intense and inconsolable crying. Babies can suffer from this disease and need special care.
"GERD can cause serious health complications for children, who may suffer from esophagitis, bloody vomit, peptic ulcers, malnutrition, altered tooth enamel and broncho-pulmonary aspiration," adds Dr. Fábio Ancona.
Children with these conditions need special milk formulas designed to meet their nutritional needs. International bodies, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend thickened formulas - which are highly effective against anti-regurgitation and anti-reflux - as the first line of treatment. These products use various types of thickeners, such as tapioca starch and locust bean gum.
"Parents and pediatricians should evaluate which formula best suits the child. You have to pay attention to the digestibility of the formula. Those that use partially hydrolyzed cow's milk protein can provide greater comfort for the child. The use of two thickeners is also a differential in the treatment of these small patients. The available formulas have the right energy, protein and lipid profile to provide good growth and development, and should contain the right amount of linoleic and α-linolenic acids for the child's good brain and visual development," says Dr. Ancona.