Infant Acid Reflux

I often call this the "Silent Monster". I think it was probably the most stressful thing I have ever encountered with my newborn. It started off as just gas became this "Silent Monster" that would only come out after bottles or at night. It was horrible to see my child screaming after every burp. I started to think there had to be an answer. So, I contacted the pediatrician and he suggested Infant Zantac. I don't know about you but I hate medicine and especially for my newborn. But, against my personal reservations I proceeded and filled the prescription. After 5 days of usage, I saw no improvement. 


Please keep in mind every baby is different, so what may not work for me may very well work for you. 


So, as always I began to consult the Google doctor :). I found post after post suggesting switch formula and potentially adding rice cereal. I thought to myself 6 weeks might be a tad to early for cereal so I tried the switch. I switch from Enfamil to Similac and landed on Similac's Alimentium (since my newborn is milk protein intolerant). I tried that for about 2 weeks and saw some improvement, but still had the issue of vomiting. 


I finally gave in and added the cereal. To my surprise it worked. Adding 1/2 tsp for every 2 oz of formula. After 2 days I noticed  constipation developing, I then became concerned. I began asking around to fellow mom's and discovered that Oatmeal cereal may be a better option. So, I gave it a whirl. Sure enough we were in business. The vomiting stopped. The frantic feedings stopped and the screams after every burp stopped. It was a complete Godsend. 


My Advice: If your baby is having issues give this a try. Pick up a box of Gerber's Oatmeal or Rice cereal. Add 1/2 tsp per 2 oz of Breastmilk or Formula, this helps with thickening the formula.