What Are Some Reflux Precautions To Take With Your Infant?
Your doctor recommends you use reflux precautions with your infant. These steps will help keep your baby from spitting up.
Basic Tips
- Avoid overfeeding your baby.
- Keep your baby away from tobacco and other chemical smoke.
- Your doctor may recommend a cow’s-milk-free diet or thickened formula to help with reflux.
Positioning Your Baby
- Keep your infant upright and calm for 20-30 minutes after each feed; preferably by holding them. Avoid placing your infant in a car seat or swing during this time as it may increase pressure on their belly and cause more symptoms of reflux.
- Place your baby on their back during sleep in an infant crib without loose blankets, pillows, toys, and care supplies. Your infant should always sleep alone and not in bed with you.
- Never place your infant on their stomach or side for sleep because of the increased risk of death from SIDS.
Medications
- If your infant does not improve, your doctor may prescribe an acid-blocking medication.
- If medications are prescribed, follow the prescription orders and contact your doctor with any medication questions.
When to Call the Doctor
Call your doctor if your infant has any of the following:
- Bloody stools or severe diarrhea
- Bloody vomit
- Recurrent pneumonia or respiratory infections
- Weight loss or slow weight gain
- Prolonged crying that cannot be explained
- Refusal to drink or eat for a prolonged period
- Forceful vomiting followed by desire to eat again in an infant less than 3 months old
- Drowsiness, not responding normally to things around them
- Coughing, choking, or gagging during feeds
