{"id":7489,"date":"2024-04-23T15:05:07","date_gmt":"2024-04-23T14:05:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/feddekees.refreshserver.nl\/?p=7489"},"modified":"2026-04-15T10:19:54","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T09:19:54","slug":"reflux-in-babies-what-can-you-do-about-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/feddekees.nl\/en\/blogs\/news\/reflux-bij-babys-wat-kun-je-eraan-doen\/","title":{"rendered":"Reflux in babies: what can you do about it?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Many babies suffer from reflux: the backflow of stomach contents into the oesophagus (possetting). But when does this change from a normal process to a potential problem that parents need to pay attention to? This article delves into different forms of reflux, from classic possetting moments to more subtle signs of silent reflux. Read useful tips on possible treatments and aids that parents can use to offer their babies comfort.<\/strong><\/p>\n

What exactly is reflux?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Reflux is a common phenomenon in babies and is actually quite normal. This is due to the fact that the valve between the gullet and the stomach is not fully developed in newborns. This allows stomach contents to flow back into the gullet more easily, resulting in spitting up or vomiting. Virtually every baby has reflux to some extent, and in many cases, this improves on its own as they get older. Generally, you will see a decrease in reflux symptoms in most babies around the age of 6 to 12 months. This is because the baby's digestive system gets stronger and the valve between the gullet and the stomach functions better as they grow.<\/p>\n

Different types of reflux<\/strong><\/h2>\n

With the most common type of reflux, your baby will bring up a little milk after feeding. Does your baby spit up a whole waterfall, as it were? That's what we call projectile vomiting. Your baby is clearly having trouble keeping food down. If this happens occasionally, there's nothing to worry about. If it happens regularly, it's best to see the GP. Fortunately, this type of reflux is clearly visible, allowing parents to take action quickly.<\/p>\n

A form that is trickier to recognise is silent reflux. With this, stomach acid flows up into the oesophagus, but is then swallowed again by your baby before it is spat back up. This causes two problems. Firstly, your baby's oesophagus is irritated by stomach acid twice, which can make it sore. Secondly, silent reflux is very difficult to recognise, as it is not immediately visible.<\/p>\n

How to recognise silent reflux<\/strong><\/h2>\n

With silent reflux, nothing comes up, but there are other (more subtle) symptoms to look out for. The most important symptom is that you see your baby swallowing very often. Many babies also throw their heads back and overextend their bodies. You'll notice this from stiffness in the neck and arm muscles. Some parents also report that their baby has a tense expression with wide-open eyes. Do you recognise the above symptoms in your baby? Then the chances are high that he or she is suffering from silent reflux.<\/p>\n

Preventing and treating reflux<\/strong><\/h2>\n

As a parent, you naturally want the best for your child and wonder when you should intervene. It's important to remember that not all forms of reflux require immediate treatment or medication. Many babies simply grow out of it as they get older. These tips can also help to limit or relieve reflux:<\/p>\n