What Causes GERD and Acid Reflux in Infants and Children?
Like in adults with the condition, gastroesophageal reflux is the upward movement of stomach contents into the esophagus and sometimes into or out of the mouth. Usually the infants with the condition are otherwise healthy, but some babies have other problems affecting their nerves, brain, or muscles. According to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse, a child’s immature digestive system is usually to blame. They add that most infants grow out of GERD by the time they are 1 year old. In older children, the causes of GERD are often the same as those seen in adults. Anything that causes the muscular valve between the stomach and esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter or LES) to relax, or anything that increases the pressure below the LES, can cause GERD. Such things include obesity, overeating, and certain foods, beverages, and medications.
