Digestive system
Digestive system


Gastroesophageal reflux in infants

Definition:
Gastroesophageal reflux is the movement of stomach contents up the esophagus toward the mouth, rather than down through the digestive system (peristalsis).

Alternative Names:
Chalasia; GE reflux; Reflux - infants

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In infants, a small amount of gastroesophageal reflux is normal. Persistent reflux with frequent vomiting, and subsequent irritation of the esophagus is indicated by unrelenting crying and discomfort. Reflux associated with weight loss or reflux that causes breathing difficulty is considered abnormal.




Review Date: 1/12/2003
Reviewed By: Andrew J. Muir, M.D., M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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