The key to successfully managing colic reflux is to figure out whether your child has a serious problem which needs medication or whether their reflux is simply a part of the general colic syndrome.

Baby reflux (also termed infant gastro-oesophageal reflux or GOR) occurs when food and stomach acid move back up into the oesophagus after being ingested. Here are some common causes of acid reflux:

• Abdominal bloating – gas taking up space and with less room for milk, some of it comes up (this is the BIG one and is due to intestinal colic)
• An immature digestive system – not breaking down milk
• Certain hereditary traits – rare
• Food sensitivity or mom’s diet – rare
• Medical issues that result in the weakening of the valve between stomach and oesophagus – rare

Environmental stressors also play a role. Reflux can be exacerbated by, amongst other factors:

• Hot, humid weather
• Over-stimulation
• A sudden change in routine
• Colds, infection and teething

So, how do you know if your baby’s discomfort is due to baby reflux from the colic baby syndrome or whether your child has potentially severe gastro-oesophageal reflux? Consider these situations and see what fits best……
Severe irritability and crying
Appearing to be in pain when vomiting/regurgitating/posseting
Violent and repeated hiccups – clearly causing discomfort
Feeding issues, such as gagging/spluttering/screaming/arching the back during or after feeds
A general failure to thrive
Repeated ear-, nose- or sinus infections
Severe gastro-oesophageal reflux disease – see your paediatrician for medication:

Normal Reflux Linked to the Colic Syndrome

• Mild irritability and crying
• No or minor discomfort when vomiting/regurgitating/positing
• May have frequent hiccups but without crying or real discomfort
• No serious discomfort during or after feeding

The vast majority of reflux cases are simply part of the colic syndrome. Gas is trapped in the abdominal cavity and exerts upward pressure on the stomach and diaphragm. Once this is released, the reflux disappears. A less common cause may be spinal nerve irritation from the neck which we see more frequently in babies born via caesarian or forceps delivery.