Certain foods may trigger the symptoms of GERD

Recognizing GERD Symptoms

Dr. Aeri Moon
Weill Medical College, Cornell University

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a disease that not only affects adults, but children as well. As a pediatric gastroenterologist, I often encounter families who know their child isn’t feeling well, but don't understand what the problem is. In many cases, this is because it can be hard for some children with GERD to describe their recurring symptoms.

Below are some of the common signs and symptoms that I’ve seen in my practice, which may help you when discussing your child's symptoms with a physician.

Signs and Symptoms

Younger children (12 months – 8 years)	Older children (8 – 18 years)
Stomachache	Heartburn
Vomiting	Chest pain
Irritability / excessive crying	Weight loss
Feeding difficulties / refusal behavior	Recurrent vomiting
Failure to thrive (poor growth)	Food impaction (complaint of food in chest)
Sleep disturbances	Dysphagia / odynophagia (trouble swallowing)

Additional ongoing respiratory signs and symptoms may include:
Asthma
Stridor / hoarseness (hoarse or scratchy voice)
Unexplained cough
Hiccups
Recurrent pneumonia

If you think your child may be experiencing some signs and symptoms of GERD, I would suggest speaking with your doctor. He/she will be able to determine whether your child has GERD and what you can do to treat it. First steps may include diet and lifestyle changes such as avoiding GERD trigger foods (e.g., tomato-based foods and foods that are spicy or deep-fried) or even sitting upright after eating. If diet and other lifestyle changes alone don’t help relieve the symptoms, your physician may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription medication.

ABOUT GERD

GERD MEAL MAKEOVERS

RISKS OF NSAID USE