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Gastroesophageal reflux in infants

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Definition:

Gastroesophageal reflux is the movement of stomach contents up the esophagus toward the mouth, rather than down through the digestive system. Normal movement down through the digestive system is called peristalsis .

Alternative Names:

Chalasia; GE reflux; Reflux - infants

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In infants, a small amount of gastroesophageal reflux is normal. Persistent reflux with frequent vomiting , and subsequent irritation of the esophagus, is shown by constant crying and discomfort. Reflux associated with weight loss or reflux that causes breathing difficulty is considered abnormal.

• Review Date: 10/13/2006
• Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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