Reflux is something that can occur frequently in babies, because their digestive system is still immature and this causes part of their food to be returned from the stomach to their mouth. When a baby has reflux, it can become a situation that causes parents a lot of anguish.
In the strongest cases, the baby may need to take some medication, however, a recent study found that giving babies antacids during their first year of life could increase the risk of bone fractures. We share the information and tell you what other steps you can take to help your baby.
The study
Published in the magazine Pediatrics, the study analyzed the association between the use of antacids in babies and bone fractures in later years, because the results of previous studies seemed contradictory.
In Babies and more Giving antacids and antibiotics to babies under six months may increase the risk of allergiesIn this new study, it was concluded that babies who took an antacid during their first year of life, they could have a significantly higher risk of having a bone fracture in the future, both in childhood and in adult life.
According to Elizabeth Hisle-Gorman, author of the study, the use of medications to suppress heartburn may be appropriate in very specific cases in which the baby suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is not the same as simple reflux that most babies usually have.
However, he also comments that there is increasing evidence that the use of antacids in babies is not only ineffective, but also, is associated with other adverse effects, which include a higher risk of certain infections.
In conclusion, the study joins other research that recommend avoiding as much as possible to give babies antacids, and that if it is really necessary, wait to start this type of treatment at more advanced ages and for the shortest possible time.
What to do if your baby has reflux
As we had said at the beginning, reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, happens when stomach acid returns to the baby's mouth, causing some of the food to be returned. In most cases, this is not a serious condition. and it becomes less frequent as the baby grows.
However, it is something that can be very distressing for the parents, because the baby feels uncomfortable and naturally wants to help them stop having a bad time. Fortunately, there are some measures that can be taken to try to help the baby not have reflux:
- Instead of giving it a full shot and waiting until you're hungry, try administer food in smaller quantities and more frequently.
- Place your head higher than your stomach when eating, so that with the help of gravity, you can prevent food from returning to the mouth.
- Avoid putting pressure on your stomachDo not overtighten the diapers and avoid wearing strong elastic garments in the abdomen.
- make her burp after each meal.
- Hold it in a vertical position after feeding for at least 30 minutes.
- Keep calm after each meal and do not do activities that may agitate you, to allow it to digestion calmly.
- In case of bottle feeding, you must make sure you use those with an adequate nipple and anti-colic valve, as they help reduce air intake.
In Babies and more My baby regurgitates, what can I do?If these measures do not work or help decrease reflux, it is best to consult with the doctor, to look for other possible solutions or to review the possibility that your baby has gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Photos | iStock
Via | Healthline
