UChicago Medicine Comer Children's

Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) in Children

Heartburn in Children: GERD vs. Acid Reflux?

It is normal for babies, children and teenagers to occasionally get acid reflux after eating. This burning sensation in the chest is also known as heartburn and is generally harmless.

When acid reflux happens a lot, your child may have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. GERD is not only uncomfortable. If left untreated, GERD can lead to:

At the University of Chicago Comer Children’s Hospital, our experienced pediatric gastroenterologists are experts at diagnosing and treating GERD in babies, children and teenagers.

Schedule a Pediatric GI Appointment

GERD: Common Cause and Symptoms

GERD is often caused by a weak sphincter muscle in the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the stomach to the mouth. As a result, food and stomach acids can flow up the esophagus to the throat, instead of moving down to the stomach.

In addition to frequent heartburn, children with GERD may have other chronic symptoms, including:

  • Swallowing problems
  • Bad breath
  • Nausea
  • Breathing problems
  • Chronic cough

Signs of GERD in Babies and Toddlers

How do I know if my baby or toddler has GERD?

GERD symptoms may be different in very young children and infants. Younger children with GERD may not experience heartburn. If they do, they may have trouble describing the feeling. Instead they might complain of stomach or chest pain or become unusually irritable after eating. Other symptoms include sour breath, refusing to eat and spitting up food or vomiting.

GERD Treatment in Children and Teens

Lifestyle and diet changes, along with prescription medications, can help treat GERD in many children and teenagers.

Meet our Pediatric Gastroenterologists and Hepatologists

Request an Appointment

You can also schedule an appointment instantly for in-person and video visits through our online scheduling portal.

The information you provide will enable us to assist you as efficiently as possible. A representative will contact you within one to two business days to help you schedule an appointment.

To speak to someone directly, please call 1-888-824-0200. If you have symptoms of an urgent nature, please call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.

 
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Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
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By submitting this form you acknowledge the risk of sending this information by email and agree not to hold the University of Chicago or University of Chicago Medical Center liable for any damages you may incur as a result of the transfer or use of this information. The use or transmittal of this form does not create a physician-contact relationship. More information regarding the confidentiality of this request can be found in our Privacy Policy.