Silent Reflux

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease 

ALL babies have acid reflux.  

In EB babies acid reflux can be very severe and cause significant damage to the throat, mouth, and upper airway, which includes the epiglottis and vocal cords.

From personal experience, I have also found these to be signs of Gastroesophageal reflux:

• crying when laid flat on their back
• a hoarse cry/voice
• severe colic
• cranky when they eat, often pushing the bottle away after a few minutes
• coughing, especially while eating
• mucus present in the mouth frequently
• difficulty eating and breathing at the same time
• may prefer to sleep in an infant chair or swing
• has a stuffy nose with no other signs of illness
• frequently wakes at night but has no interest in eating. 

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 up excess mucus and in turn can lead to swallowing, eating, and breathing difficulties.  In severe cases, the excess mucus and inflammation can close off the airway resulting in respiratory distress or failure. 

It is standard practice to prescribe reflux medication immediately to prevent serious damage. 

Prevacid, Nexium, Prilosec, and Protonix are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat reflux in EB.