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Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) during or after a meal. A ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus opens and closes to allow food to enter the stomach. This ring is called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Reflux can occur when the LES opens, allowing stomach contents and acid to come

Almost all children and adults have a little bit of reflux, without being aware of it. When refluxed material rapidly returns to the stomach, it causes no damage to the esophagus. In some children, the stomach contents remain in the esophagus and cause damage to the esophagus lining. In other children, the stomach contents go up to the mouth (regurgitation) and are swallowed again. When the

The doctor or nurse can talk with you about your child's symptoms, examine your child, and recommend tests to determine if reflux is the cause of the symptoms. These tests check the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine to see if there are any problems. However, treatment is sometimes started without tests. The most common tests used to diagnose GER are Upper GI series x ray: Barium (a chalky

The treatment of reflux depends on the child's symptoms and age. When a child or teenager is uncomfortable, has difficulty sleeping or eating, or fails to grow, the doctor or nurse may first suggest a trial of medication to decrease the amount of acid made in the stomach. One class of medications called H2-blockers includes cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), and

GER occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus. GER is common in infants but most children grow out of it. GER may cause vomiting, coughing, hoarseness, or painful swallowing. Treatment depends on the child's symptoms and age, and may include changes in eating habits and medications. Surgery may be an option. source:

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, through its Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, supports basic and clinical research into gastrointestinal diseases. Researchers are studying the risk factors for developing GER and what causes the LES to open, with the aim of improving future treatment for GER. source:

North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Phone: 1-888-344-8888 Internet: www.NASPGHAN.org www.CDHNF.org www.KidsAcidReflux.org www.TeensAcidReflux.org source: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gerinchildren/index.htm