Hello!

I hear your concern about the reflux and the right treatment approach. Certainly getting a diagnosis is job #1. Often in medicine, a test is done and then the problem is confirmed or ruled out. With infant reflux, a trial of medication or a change of diet (or both) are used to confirm or rule out reflux. If the Zantac helps to decrease the symptoms, the diagnosis is confirmed and the treatment continues. Sometimes the doctor will test the stool for signs of blood, indicating Milk Soy Protein Intolerance. Even if the test is negative, some babies seem to respond positively to a dairy/soy free diet. It is worth a try for a week or two.

Often it is necessary to schedule an extra visit or more during the early stage of treatment. You will have many questions and maybe the treatment will need to be adjusted. Don't worry needlessly while waiting for the "well" check ups. Just go ahead and schedule a "sick" visit to address the reflux issues.

The treatment should decrease or eliminate the pain. There may be a decrease in other symptoms too. Again, seeing the doctor on a regular basis will give you both the chance to evaluate the treatment. This will allow you and the doctor to decide if it is necessary to see a GI specialist. Keep in mind that most babies with reflux do not see a GI specialist. Reflux is common and most pediatricians are very familiar with it.

Your little guy may be overwhelmed by a lot of milk or a strong let down. You can certainly express a bit before he latches on. You can try keeping him a bit more upright so that he can let gravity help keep the milk down. Some babies just drain one breast at each feeding. This way , he will get the foremilk and hindmilk before he is full. You can use a clip or safety pin on your bra to help you remember which side to use at the next feeding. Over time, he might be able to get back to nursing on both sides. A lactation specialist may be able to help you with these issues.

Make sure he is doing his job too-getting a good seal and not ingesting a lot of air while nursing.

I hope that I answered your questions. let me know if you need more information or other questions and concerns. You have a lot going on right now!

Best wishes,

Jan