I was able to get in to see this particular GI Specialist that came highly recommended by my daughter's pediatrician. For about 2 weeks, she refused to eat. I had to resort to feeding her by syringe, spoon, even dipped a wash cloth in formula for her to suck on...and of course sleep feeding her (which doesn't always go well). She's been to see 2 other GI Specialists but I practically begged the clinic and asked to be put on a waiting list. I was fortunate enough that there was a cancellation in appointment and I was able to bring her in this past Thursday.
He basically said that the dosage of her meds were incorrect. So now she's on 15 mg of Prevacid (7.5 mg given twice a day) and on Bethanechol...he increased the dosage of that from what the other GI Specialist prescribed.
Today she took one bottle without much of a fight, but of course the rest of the feedings, I had to sleep feed or spoon/syringe feed her.
I'm praying with the new dose of meds, she will want to eat again. She'll drink water out of the bottle but will fight when there's formula in it.
With the right meds, can this aversion be reversed?
Hello Chloe's Mom,
I am so glad you were able to get in to see the GI specialist and adjust the medications. In many cases, adjusting the medication will make feeding more comfortable. Other times, it is a combination of treatments. I hope the doctor told you how long to try the medication and when to come back or check in by phone. If a few days or weeks go by and you are not seeing improvement, it is time to call in or have a follow up appointment.
Keep track of how often you are feeding her and how much she will take. Keep in mind that she still may have some ups and downs in her intake over the course of the day or from day to day. The medication may take a few days to start working. As desperate as you may feel about getting her to eat, never force her to eat or pressure her to take the bottle. If she is showing signs of dehydration, go to the doctor or emergency department.
Hang in there and keep in touch!
Jan Gambino
The Reflux Mom