GER, that is, stomach contents coming back towards the esophagus, is a frequently observed situation, but this acidic content coming out of the esophagus and into the throat and upper respiratory tract (extra esophageal or laryngopharyngeal reflux) can cause serious problems.
Babies. GER, which is frequently observed due to the valve mechanisms called sphincters at the upper and lower ends of the esophagus not working well before starting to sit, spending a lot of time in a lying position, and the esophagus being short, usually resolves spontaneously with increased muscle control and sitting. GER occurs when the function of the muscles that act as valves at the lower end of the esophagus, where it connects to the stomach, is impaired. The passage of high-acid stomach contents up through the esophagus can cause serious acid damage in these areas.
What are the symptoms of GER?
The symptoms of GER in babies and children are quite mild and cannot be noticed until a problem occurs. It may not be possible. Although the most obvious complaint is a burning sensation in the chest, children often have difficulty describing this feeling and may express it as abdominal pain or discomfort in the chest after eating.
Serious reflux occurs in the stomach, esophagus, throat, vocal cords, lungs. It can cause various problems in the sinuses, ears and teeth. The most common symptoms with GER in children are restlessness and crying, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, developmental delay, weight loss, belching, vomiting, stomach aches, sore throat, difficulty breathing, hoarseness, chronic cough, food leaking into the airways, and respiratory arrest during sleep. (apnea), stenosis in the airways, asthma, chronic sinusitis, ear infections and fluid accumulation in the ear, and tooth decay. If the child vomits easily, the possibility of reflux should be considered. While GER may resolve spontaneously under one year of age, this possibility decreases and the need for treatment increases as we get older.
How is GER diagnosed?
The diagnosis can usually be made by history and examination. The most commonly used test methods are as follows:
Acid measurement:
Acid measuring sensors on a thin wire placed through the nose into the esophagus make continuous measurements for 12-24 hours and transfer the data to a computer system. . After all, the patient has It is checked how often ide acid reaches the esophagus and whether these periods coincide with the complaints.
Medicated esophageal films:
Swallowing function and the structure of the esophagus are evaluated by radiological recording while drinking barium-containing contrast material.
Gastric emptying test:
After drinking milk containing a weak radioactive substance, the course of the substance in the gastrointestinal tract is followed with a special camera.
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