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Children in this age group are getting better at describing symptoms they feel on the inside but don't show on the outside. You can help your child by watching him or her closely and asking about symptoms. Also, try asking your child to "draw where it hurts." Often a child's artwork can help you identify and understand symptoms your child cannot explain with words. Talk about the symptoms with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can tell whether your child's symptoms may be GERD (also called acid reflux disease).
How does GERD happen? When stomach acid goes too many times where it should not be—into the esophagus—it can cause irritation. That irritation can lead to symptoms of GERD.
Every child is unique. And, each child may experience GERD a little differently. If your child is having one or more of the symptoms above, be sure to tell the healthcare provider. You can use the GERD diary to help you keep track of the symptoms.
How does GERD happen? When stomach acid goes too many times where it should not be—into the esophagus—it can cause irritation. That irritation can lead to symptoms of GERD.
Does your child have any of these symptoms related to GERD?
- Feeling queasy and/or throwing up
- Regurgitating (bringing up sour fluid into the mouth)
- Burping/belching
- Wheezing
- Stomachaches
- Trouble swallowing
- A hoarse or scratchy voice
- Heartburn or pain in chest
- Weight loss
Every child is unique. And, each child may experience GERD a little differently. If your child is having one or more of the symptoms above, be sure to tell the healthcare provider. You can use the GERD diary to help you keep track of the symptoms.
Treatment for GERD can bring relief.
If your child is diagnosed with GERD, there are many things that can help, including prescription medicine such as Prevacid. Some changes your healthcare provider may suggest include the ones listed below. (Don't make any of these changes without talking with your healthcare provider first.)Changes in your child's diet
Even small changes to your child's diet can make a real difference. Remember, only your healthcare provider can diagnose GERD. Be sure to check with him or her before changing your child's daily routine. Your healthcare provider may suggest that you try these steps:- Avoid giving your child food and drinks that may trigger symptoms. Such foods might include chocolate, spicy foods, acidic foods (such as orange juice and tomatoes), and drinks that contain caffeine (such as colas and chocolate milk).
- If your child is overweight, help him or her lose weight.
- Try not to eat meals or snacks within 2 to 3 hours of bedtime.
Changes in your child's sleeping position
Your child's healthcare provider may recommend changing your child's sleeping position. For example, the healthcare provider may suggest that you- Have your child sleep on his or her left side.
- Raise the head of your child's bed so that it is higher than the foot.
IMPORTANT SAFETY AND OTHER INFORMATION:
Prescription Prevacid is approved for GERD in children aged 1–17 years. Individual results may vary. Prevacid Capsules and Prevacid® SoluTab™ (lansoprazole) Orally Disintegrating Tablets may not be right for everyone. Prevacid has a low occurrence of side effects in adults and children including diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, constipation, and headache. Symptom relief does not rule out other serious stomach conditions. For further information, talk with your child's healthcare provider and click here for complete Prevacid prescribing information.
Prescription Prevacid is approved for GERD in children aged 1–17 years. Individual results may vary. Prevacid Capsules and Prevacid® SoluTab™ (lansoprazole) Orally Disintegrating Tablets may not be right for everyone. Prevacid has a low occurrence of side effects in adults and children including diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, constipation, and headache. Symptom relief does not rule out other serious stomach conditions. For further information, talk with your child's healthcare provider and click here for complete Prevacid prescribing information.
