Medication & Treatment

It is believed that roughly 60% of babies diagnosed with reflux are likely to require some form of treatment or help.

Most infants are successfully treated by non-pharmacologic methods also referred to by the medical profession as conservative therapies. Such therapies include

• feeding modifications
• thickening feeds and/or giving them in smaller quantities more frequently.
• Positioning of the infant, especially immediately following feeds
• avoidance of exposure to tobacco smoke.

Such therapies are all normally advised by your medical proffessional.

Breastfeeding is always considered best for infants with reflux. The mother may be advised to avoid dairy and soy from her own diet for a trial period to see if any improvement occurs. Such practices should only be considered under the advise of a qualified medical proffessional.

In some cases exchanging milk formulas may provide improvement, some will thicken on contact with the stomach and others are hypoallergenic. Such feeds are usually prescribed by the doctor.

Quite frequently reflux can be associated with food allergies.

In some cases where the child/infant has very severe reflux, stronger more effective medications may be required.

In the most extreme cases of GERD the Nissens Fundoplication and other new surgical options may be considered where other approaches have failed.

Written by Tracey (Chairman)