How to prepare for a video visit about Acid Reflux (GERD) in children

Audience: pediatric

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is common in children and happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This can cause discomfort and symptoms like spitting up, coughing, or irritability. Preparing for a video visit with your child's healthcare provider can help you get the most out of the appointment. You can gather information about your child's symptoms, feeding habits, and any medicines they take. During the visit, the provider may ask questions and suggest ways to manage symptoms, such as changes in feeding or positioning. While many cases can be managed remotely, some situations require in-person care. This guide helps you prepare for a safe and effective telemedicine visit about your child's acid reflux.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Your child has trouble breathing or noisy breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Your child vomits blood or has black, tarry stools — get urgent medical attention.
• Your child is not gaining weight or is very sleepy and hard to wake — contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and feeding patterns related to acid reflux.
• Providing advice on feeding techniques and lifestyle changes.
• Reviewing current medications and suggesting adjustments.
• Determining if symptoms can be managed at home or need in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or diagnostic tests like endoscopy.
• Treating severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties or dehydration.
• Managing complications like bleeding or failure to thrive without in-person assessment.

What is Acid Reflux (GERD) in Children?

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid moves back up into the tube that connects the mouth and stomach (the esophagus). In children, this can cause spitting up, heartburn, or fussiness. GERD is when reflux happens often and may cause more serious symptoms.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before the visit, write down your child's symptoms, when they happen, and how often. Note any feeding details, such as what and how much your child eats or drinks. Have a list of any medicines or supplements your child takes. Make sure your device has a good internet connection and a quiet space for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may ask you to show your child's feeding routine or any visible signs. The provider will discuss ways to help reduce acid reflux, such as feeding changes or medicine if needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has trouble breathing, severe vomiting, blood in vomit or stool, or is not gaining weight, these are signs to get urgent in-person care. Telemedicine can help with many questions but cannot replace a full physical exam or tests if needed.

Tips for Managing Acid Reflux at Home

You may be advised to feed smaller amounts more often, keep your child upright after feeding, and avoid certain foods if your child is older. Always follow the healthcare provider's advice and ask questions during the visit.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms, including how often and when they occur.
• List all medicines, vitamins, and supplements your child takes.
• Prepare information about your child's feeding schedule and types of food or formula.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Have paper and pen ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's recommendations on feeding and medication.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if advised.
• Seek immediate care if your child shows any red flag symptoms.
• Keep a record of your child's progress to discuss in future visits.

FAQs

What causes acid reflux in children?

Acid reflux happens when the muscle between the stomach and esophagus is weak or relaxes at the wrong time, allowing stomach acid to flow back up. In infants, this is common because their digestive systems are still developing.

Can acid reflux go away on its own?

Yes, many infants outgrow acid reflux as their digestive system matures. However, if symptoms are frequent or severe, medical advice is important to prevent complications.

Is medicine always needed for GERD in children?

Not always. Many children improve with feeding changes and positioning. Medicines may be recommended if symptoms persist or cause complications, but this decision is made by the healthcare provider.

How can I help my child during a reflux episode?

Try keeping your child upright during and after feeding, feed smaller amounts more frequently, and avoid tight clothing around the stomach. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice.

When should I call the doctor about my child's reflux?

Contact your healthcare provider if your child has trouble breathing, vomits blood, has poor weight gain, or if symptoms worsen despite treatment.

Sources

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Infants and Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.