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:
- Raise the head of the bed by 15 centimeters while sleeping to prevent gastric acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
- Avoid consuming foods that can stimulate gastric acid secretion, such as coffee, alcohol, and irritating foods, to reduce acid reflux.
- Take antacid medication one hour after meals and before bedtime to neutralize stomach acid and reduce acid leakage from the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Medications like cimetidine or ranitidine can lower the acidity in the stomach.
- 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.
- 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.