Question

My baby is four and a half months old. The doctor mentioned at birth that there was a problem with gastric acid. The baby still frequently regurgitates acid water. How should I handle this situation?

Answer

Firstly, it is important to determine the cause after a medical examination and then proceed with treatment. Here are some methods to alleviate gastroesophageal reflux:

  1. Raise the head of the bed by 15 centimeters while sleeping to prevent gastric acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
  2. Avoid consuming foods that can stimulate gastric acid secretion, such as coffee, alcohol, and irritating foods, to reduce acid reflux.
  3. Take antacid medication one hour after meals and before bedtime to neutralize stomach acid and reduce acid leakage from the lower esophageal sphincter.
  4. Medications like cimetidine or ranitidine can lower the acidity in the stomach.
  5. Avoid foods that may increase the risk of acid leakage from the lower esophageal sphincter, such as fats and chocolate, and avoid smoking and certain medications.
  6. Use medications that can tightly close the lower esophageal sphincter, such as omeprazole, domperidone, or cisapride. These measures can help reduce the baby’s instances of gastroesophageal reflux.