ediatric GERD / Acid Reflux Information

GERD and Children

Children with Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can go undiagnosed for months, according to a new survey of moms.

When is a child's stomachache more than an upset stomach? The answer is not clear, but when stomachaches occur frequently it could be a symptom of pediatric gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. More than 15 million adult Americans suffer from GERD; it is also common and often overlooked in children.

A new consumer survey of 210 mothers of children diagnosed with pediatric GERD showed that an average of more than two months passed between when the child first showed frequent symptoms or complained of stomachaches until the time they were diagnosed with pediatric GERD. The survey was developed in conjunction with the Pediatric Adolescent Gastroesophageal Reflux Association (PAGER).

Recognizing the symptoms of pediatric GERD can be a challenge for parents. Many symptoms of this disease are also common ailments afflicting children, including frequent stomachaches, nausea, vomiting and belching.

"Pediatric GERD is a serious condition that has been associated with chronic respiratory conditions such as cough, bronchitis, hoarseness and pneumonia. In the most severe cases, pediatric GERD
can cause malnutrition and even failure to thrive," said pediatric gastroenterologist Susan Maisel, M.D. "The results of this survey raise concerns about the lack of knowledge mothers may have about the symptoms of pediatric GERD. It is important for parents to discuss their child's symptoms with their pediatrician."

"Not surprisingly, the survey revealed as many as 80 percent of parents turn to the Internet for information on pediatric GERD" says Beth Anderson, director of PAGER. "While the Internet is a great first step for parents to learn about pediatric GERD, we urge parents to speak with their child's physician for proper diagnosis and treatment options."

Furthermore, the survey revealed that less than half of mothers of children without GERD did not know it is a common condition in children.

"If mothers are familiar with the possible symptoms of GERD, children may receive a diagnosis from their doctor in a more timely manner," said Maisel. "For my pediatric GERD
patients, I usually recommend diet and lifestyle changes in conjunction with a prescription, if needed."

The survey consisted of 1,000 interviews with mothers of children between the ages of 12 months and 17 years, and was conducted by Yankelovich and funded by TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc.