Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Approximately 70% of those with EB suffer from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
DebRA.org states that: Gastroesophageal reflux is the back up of stomach acid into the esophagus in many instances this may cause discomfort and reduce desire to feed.
Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux may include:
Cranky and pushing away bottle after a few minutes of feeding.
Reluctance to feed.
Coughing.
Milk may be present in mouth between feeds.
If gastroesophageal reflux is suspected it is helpful to consult a Pediatric Gastroenterologist. Physician may order various diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, pH testing and/or various radiographic studies to rule out the presence of reflux
From personal experience, I have also found these to be signs of Gastroesophageal reflux:
crying when laid flat on their back; may prefer to sleep in a infant chair or swing; stuffy nose; frequently wakes at night for no apparent reason and rarely I have found reflux to cause diarrhea and a rash that usually is only present after a bowl movement.
Gastroesophageal reflux can also cause blistering and erosions in the esophagus. This can lead to eating and breathing issues. It can also cause a build up excess mucus and in turn can lead to swallowing, eating and breathing difficulties
A grandmother of an EB baby recommend this site to explain more about Reflux in Infants: http://www.marci-kids.com/
Some common prescription medications used to treat Gastroesophageal reflux:
Zantac- known as a H2 blocker; usually taken twice a day and is VERY bitter.
Previcid- known as a Proton pump inhibitor, comes in a powder, dissolvable tablets and a regular pill. The powder is mixed with water and has a pleasant berry taste as does the dissolvable tablet. The pill can be broken open and the contents sprinkled over applesauce.
Nexium, also is Proton pump inhibitor comes only in pill form and also can be broken in half and sprinkled over applesauce
Reglan is an Prokinetic agent which has several effects. It may make the valve between the esophagus and stomach (lower esophageal sphincter) close more tightly, which helps prevent stomach juices from getting into the esophagus. They may also help the stomach empty quicker. Prokinetic agents are sometimes combined with an acid reducer, but their use is limited by frequent, sometimes severe side effects.
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