Question
A four-month-old baby was diagnosed with a significant gastric acid problem at birth and still frequently experiences acid reflux. How should it be handled?
Answer
Firstly, it is important to determine the cause of the condition under a doctor’s guidance and to receive treatment. Here are some methods that may help alleviate acid reflux:
- Raise the head of the bed by 15 centimeters while sleeping to prevent acid from the esophagus from refluxing.
- Avoid consuming coffee, alcohol, and other foods that may stimulate gastric acid secretion to reduce acid reflux.
- Take antacid medications one hour after meals and before bedtime to neutralize stomach acid and reduce acid escape from the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Use Cimetidine or Ranitidine to decrease gastric acid secretion.
- Avoid certain specific foods (such as fats and chocolates), smoking, and certain medications (such as anticholinergic drugs) as these may increase the risk of acid escape from the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Take bile acid drugs (such as mesalate, domperidone, or cisapride) to help the lower esophageal sphincter close more tightly. Follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment and pay attention to any changes in your baby’s symptoms. If necessary, consult your doctor promptly.