Reflux

Reflux is very common in babies and young children. Many parents notice frequent spitting up, vomiting, or discomfort during or after feeds. While reflux is often a normal part of development, it can be distressing for parents when their child seems uncomfortable or unsettled.

Reflux in Babies and Children

Gentle Support for Feeding and Comfort

Reflux is very common in babies and young children. Many parents notice frequent spitting up, vomiting, or discomfort during or after feeds. While reflux is often a normal part of development, it can be distressing for parents when their child seems uncomfortable or unsettled.

At his pediatric practice, Dr. Mahesh Katre provides calm, thoughtful care to help parents understand reflux, ease their child’s discomfort, and know when treatment or further support is needed.

What Is Reflux in Children?

Reflux happens when milk or food flows back from the stomach into the food pipe.
This is common in babies because their digestive system is still developing.

In most cases:
  • Reflux improves as babies grow
  • Symptoms reduce once children sit, crawl, and eat solids
  • No long-term problems occur

Some children, however, may need extra support if reflux causes pain or feeding difficulties.

Signs Parents May Notice

Reflux can look different in each child. Parents may notice:
  • Frequent spitting up or vomiting
  • Irritability or crying during or after feeds
  • Arching of the back during feeding
  • Poor feeding or refusal to feed
  • Slow weight gain
  • Coughing or choking episodes
  • Disturbed sleep

Not all spitting up means something is wrong, but ongoing discomfort should be checked.

How Dr. Mahesh Helps

Care is gentle, practical, and reassuring.

Dr. Mahesh:
  • Listens carefully to feeding and symptom history
  • Examines the child calmly
  • Assesses growth and comfort
  • Helps differentiate normal reflux from problem reflux
  • Guides parents on feeding techniques and positioning
  • Recommends treatment only when truly needed
  • Monitors progress over time

Parents always receive clear explanations and simple next steps.

Supporting Your Child at Home

Parents are guided on:
  • Feeding positions that reduce discomfort
  • Burping techniques
  • Feed volume and frequency adjustments
  • Safe sleeping positions
  • Comfort measures to soothe the baby

Small changes often make a big difference in reducing symptoms.

When Should Parents Seek Medical Advice?

It is important to consult a pediatrician if:
  • Reflux causes persistent pain or distress
  • Feeding becomes difficult
  • Vomiting is forceful or frequent
  • Weight gain is poor
  • Symptoms continue beyond infancy
  • You feel worried or unsure as a parent

Early guidance helps prevent feeding stress and discomfort.

Reassurance for Parents

Reflux is very common and usually improves with time. Most babies outgrow reflux as their digestive system matures.

You are not doing anything wrong. With the right guidance, feeding can become more comfortable and enjoyable again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Reflux is very common in babies and often improves as they grow.

No. Many babies improve with feeding and positioning changes. Medication is used only when symptoms are severe or affecting growth.

In some cases, yes. Poor feeding or frequent vomiting can affect weight gain, which is why monitoring growth is important.

Most babies outgrow reflux by their first year as the digestive system matures.

Yes. Reflux can occur in older children too and may present as tummy pain, heartburn, or vomiting.

Most reflux is harmless. It becomes a concern only when it causes pain, feeding difficulties, or poor growth.