Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Cause of Breathing Problems

Gastroesophageal Reflux:
A Cause of Breathing Problems

Does your child show signs of reflux?

Adults may complain of heartburn, indigestion or a feeling that food is stuck in the throat. While we think babies may have the same symptoms, we don't know for sure. The most common symptoms that babies seem to have with reflux are vomiting and colicky pain. They also may have symptoms such as:

• Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing). This may be constant or occasional
  
• Chest congestion or rattling (noisy breathing)
  
• Choking or gagging
  
• Apnea (stop breathing for 20 seconds or longer)

In older children, reflux may cause:

• Croup (a high-pitched, barking cough)
  
• Frequent cough
  
• Hoarseness and other problems with the voice box
  
• Poorly controlled asthma

Breathing problems that may cause reflux in children include:

• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia
  
• Cystic fibrosis
  
• Asthma
  

| More About Pediatric Reflux