County Osteopaths : Reflux in Babies

One reason for frequent vomiting in babies is Gastro-oesophageal Reflux (Reflux).

Reflux in a baby stands out from the other causes of vomitting as it usually gives symptoms of constant irritability. Most other causes of crying cause only one or two bouts of crying per day but the Reflux baby seems iritable constantly, especially after feeds and even during feeds and this goes on day and night. Generally the baby also vomits or possets after feeds (although some reflux babies don’t - see Silent Reflux opposite).

Reflux occurs because the baby’s stomach valve is not fully developed thus allowing stomach contents to flow back into the oesophagus (gullet) where it causes discomfort and from where it can easily flow back up and out of the mouth. Reflux is known to be more common in boys.

Babies are thought to grow out of Reflux by the time they are about 10 months as by then the stomach valve muscle will have developed enough to do its job.

In the meantime, the usual treatments are prescirbed stomach soothing medicines such as Gaviscon. Your GP should be happy to prescribe it provided your baby has the right symptoms. In some cases Gaviscon does not help and other medicines, which reduce stomach acidity, may be required.

Babies who have Reflux but do not vomit are said to have “Silent Reflux” and should be treated in the same way as ordinary Reflux.

If your baby continues to be unsettled even though their Reflux is being treated medically, Cranial Osteopathy may help by reducing tension around the baby’s abdomen. This may aid relaxation and allow your baby to sleep better. For more information please ring.

This information does not replace the need for specific medical advice.