BIDE Hl] a Ith Pediatric GERD—A Common Childhood Disease (NAPSA)—Your baby or toddler might be more than simply a fussy eater. Each year millions of children suffer from gastroesophageal reflux—a relatively common condition resulting from gastric contents in the stomach pace up into> the esophagus. mill. a oe ; Each year, approximately 8 to 10 percent of infants in the U.S. are diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In some children, reflux leads to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with complications ranging from persistent discomfort for the child (and frustration for the parents), to burning and scarring of the esophagus, chronic coughing and wheezing, poor weight gain and growth, and in some cases, recurrent pneumonia and apnea(cessation of breathing). To reduce GERD symptoms, parents have a number of options, including changes in diet and positioning of the child dur- ing and after feeding. Many child-friendly treatment options are available. As with any medical condition, you should first consult your physician about your child’s symptoms. For more information on GERD, including a list of common symptoms as well as a useful “Reflux Recorder” checklist, visit www.babygerd.com, available from GlaxoSmithKline.
