Acidity in children is one of the common problems that cause obvious discomfort and affect the child's comfort and sleep during the day. Acidity may appear in multiple forms, such as pain in the upper abdomen.
Or a burning sensation or the regurgitation of food into the mouth. Knowing the cause of the problem helps in choosing the appropriate treatment method and relieving the pain quickly.
What is acidity in children?
Causes of acidity in children
Acidity in children refers to the return of some stomach contents into the esophagus due to the relaxation of the valve between them, causing heartburn and pain in the chest or upper part of the abdomen.
It often appears after meals or when lying down and may be accompanied by nausea or frequent belching. It is a common problem, especially at a young age, and often improves by modifying eating habits and daily routine.
Causes of acidity in children
Acidity in children occurs due to several factors, such as eating large meals, consuming excessive acidic or fried foods, or sleeping immediately after eating. In some cases, acidity is related to gastroesophageal reflux or the presence of mild inflammation in the stomach. Stress and emotions may also increase the severity of symptoms in some children.
Symptoms of acidity in children
Some signs, when they appear frequently, may indicate persistent acidity in children, including:
- A burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen.
- Belching or slight regurgitation of food into the mouth.
- Pain during or immediately after eating.
- Mild nausea or loss of appetite.
- Difficulty sleeping due to pain.
- The frequent appearance of these signs may indicate persistent acidity in children and requires follow-up.
How to treat acidity in children at home
Acidity in children can be alleviated with some simple measures, such as:
- Offering small, frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Elevating the child's head slightly during sleep.
- Avoiding fried and fatty foods before bedtime.
- Encouraging the child to drink adequate amounts of water throughout the day.
Foods that help soothe acidity in children
There are foods that are gentle on the stomach, such as:
- Natural yogurt.
- Bananas.
- Mashed potatoes.
- White rice.
- Boiled vegetables.
Foods to avoid because they increase acidity
It is important to avoid some items that may increase inflammation, such as:
- Fried and fatty meals.
- Chocolate.
- Spicy foods.
- Acidic juices like lemon and orange.
- Carbonated beverages.
When should you visit a doctor?
The child should be examined if acidity in children persists for more than a week despite dietary adjustments, or if it is accompanied by frequent vomiting, weight loss, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing.
How to prevent acidity in children?
For long-term prevention, it is recommended to regulate meals, avoid eating two hours before bedtime, maintain a healthy weight for the child, and promote balanced dietary habits to reduce the chances of recurrent acidity in children.
Are medications beneficial in cases of acidity in children?
In mild cases, the doctor may recommend safe medications to reduce acidity or protect the stomach lining. No medication should be given without medical consultation to avoid complications, especially for young children.
Frequently Asked Questions about acidity in children
Is acidity in children dangerous?
Often it is not dangerous,but it may require medical evaluation if it recurs noticeably or affects the child's sleep or appetite.
Can acidity in children disappear over time?
Yes,in many cases it improves with dietary adjustments and following a healthy sleep routine.
Can acidity in children be treated with herbs?
Some warm drinks may help soothe,but they should be used with caution and not relied upon instead of proper diagnosis.
Article Summary
Acidity in children is a common problem that can be controlled with simple steps such as regulating food, avoiding irritating foods, and elevating the head during sleep.
In most cases, symptoms improve quickly, but their persistence warrants consulting a doctor to ensure there is no gastroesophageal reflux or another problem that needs additional treatment.