Symptoms of acid reflux disease in children may vary from the symptoms you see in adults, and are often overlooked. The most common symptoms are repeated vomiting, coughing, effortless spitting up, and other common respiratory problems. Children who are constantly crying, are unable to gain weight, and refuse to eat may also be suffering from acid reflux. Halitosis is also a common symptom in children, though it is important to note that there is no one universal symptom of acid reflux in children.
The effects of Acid Reflux Disease
Mild cases will generally result in no long-term damage, rather just discomfort from heartburn, the tastes left from regurgitation, or slight embarrassment from halitosis. However, severe cases can cause several serious problems with your espohagus, respiratory system, and teeth. You can experience anywhere from severe inflammation of the esophagus (what is known as "esophagitis"), a narrowing of the esophagus, to a wearing of the lining of the esophagus, which can ulcers in the esophagus. Another major problem that can be caused by a severe case of Acid Reflux is Barrett's Esophagus. Barrett's Esophagus is a condition where the cells that line the inside of the esophagus are replaced by cells similar to those that line the inside of the intestine. This change takes place after a long-time exposure of the esophagus to stomach juices. Having Barrett's Esophagus also increases your chances of developing esophageal cancer.