Reflux is super common among newborns
So much so, that the HSE reported that it can affect 4 in 10 babies leading to a range of symptoms from vomiting shortly after feeding, crying or hiccuping.
Yet sometimes your baby might not show any obvious sign such as throwing up but they still have the uncomfortable condition.
This is known as silent reflux or laryngopharyngeal reflux and it can be harder to detect.
What is reflux?
In basic terms, reflux is when acid comes up from your little one’s stomach and burns their throat.
Babies are particularly prone to this as their sphincter is less developed than that of an adult.
This is why the vast majority of young babies spit up frequently- although this is typically outgrown quickly.
Babies with low muscle tone may be more likely to develop reflux.
In adults, this is commonly known as ‘heartburn’ and although the reasons for heartburn in an adult can be quite different to infant reflux, the feeling can be the same – that horrid burning sensation of acid coming up your oesophagus.
What is silent reflux?
According to the HSE, some babies with reflux do not have any obvious spit up or vomit.
The contents of their stomach move up their food pipe, but don’t come out their mouth. This is known as silent or occult reflux.
Infants with silent reflux also often present with feeding difficulties, which can slow weight gain and even cause weight loss.
Other symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Gagging
- Nasal congestion
- Chronic coughing
- Refusing to eat
- Noisy breathing or wheezing
- Hoarseness
What can I do to help?
Thankfully the HSE has loads of tips that can help ease the symptoms of silent reflux but of course, if you have any concerns, get in contact with your child’s healthcare provider.
- Wait a few seconds before feeding if your breast milk is spraying – wait until it slows
- Hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as you can afterwards, ideally for 20 to 30 minutes if possible
- Burp your baby regularly during feeds
- Think about carrying your baby in a sling – some parents feel this helps their baby’s reflux
- Roll your baby on their side for nappy changes rather than lifting their legs toward their tummy
- Dress your baby in loose clothing with a loose nappy waistband
- Allow your baby some nappy-free time every day
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