Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Causes in ChildrenAcid reflux in kids, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, affecting children and teens. GERD is often caused by factors that weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that opens to let food into the stomach but sometimes fails to close properly, allowing acid from the stomach to back up into the esophagus. This reflux means stomach acid goes back into the food pipe, leading to gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms such as heartburn, an acid taste, and bad breath.In infants and older children, GERD symptoms may include fussiness, frequent spit-ups, arching backwards, and refusing to eat. Gastroesophageal reflux disease causes in children can range from stress to specific dietary triggers. Reflux occurs more often when the production of stomach acid is excessive or if the child is burped and has an acid taste in the mouth. GERD in infants is common, as they naturally have a weaker LES. Children with reflux may experience asthma-like symptoms, respiratory issues, or coughing as acid reflux irritates the airways. Endoscopy, a procedure involving a flexible tube, may be used to diagnose GERD by examining the upper GI tract, including parts of the stomach and small intestine, to measure the amount of acid the stomach makes and to identify non-acid reflux. For older children, an upper GI series or gastric emptying study can help diagnose reflux and determine the severity of the condition.Treatment will depend on the severity of symptoms and may include dietary changes, smaller portions at mealtimes, or specific medications to decrease the amount of acid produced in the stomach. If your child has reflux or is diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux, [...]