What Causes Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Children?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents reflux, or back up, into the esophagus during or after a meal. Although infant acid reflux most often occurs after a feeding, it can happen anytime your baby coughs, cries or strains. Most babies who have infant acid reflux are healthy.
What are the Symptoms of GERD?
The most common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children are:
- Frequent or recurrent vomiting
- Frequent or persistent cough or wheezing
- Refusing to eat or difficulty eating (choking or gagging with feeding)
- Heartburn, gas, abdominal pain, or colicky behavior (frequent crying and fussiness)
- Regurgitation and re-swallowing
How is GERD Treated?
The treatment for reflux depends on a child’s symptoms and age. If your child is uncomfortable, your pediatrician may prescribe lower doses of medications commonly used to treat heartburn in adults. But because these medications are made for adults proper dosing and administration may be a problem for some parents; leading to the potential for too much/little medication being given.
Compounding Medications for GERD
Our pharmacists have the ability to custom dose certain medications for your child to treat his/her GERD. These medications are made based upon your child’s unique physical makeup. Flavored oral suspensions can be made at concentrations that are based on your child’s body weight; making administration potentially more effective.
Is a Compounded Prescription for GERD Right for My Child?
- Talk to your child’s health care provider - Discuss compounding as a treatment option, and let your child’s health care provider know you heard about prescription compounding from Vic’s Family Pharmacy.
- Contact Us - To inquire about potential treatment strategies, and how Vic’s Family Pharmacy can help you and your child.
