Hello!

You are asking a very important question. New research is showing that home care and treatment (positioning, diet, thickening formula/breastmilk) have a high rate of effectiveness in treating GERD in infants. Some doctors start with home care treatments to see if the symptoms decrease and the baby becomes more comfortable. It is a more conservative "wait and see"  approach.

On the other hand, if the doctor is worried that the symptoms are causing complications such as respiratory problems, apnea or weight loss, a more aggressive approach might be started first. This may include a strong medication such as a PPI. Some doctors start with an acid reducer such as Zantac or Pepcid and then move up to the stronger PPI medication next.

I know some parents want to start with the strongest medication and others are comfortable with the wait and see approach. Likewise, some doctors have a particular treatment approach that they use. It might make sense to revisit the treatment plan with the doctor. You might want to call or even go in for a visit to discuss the reflux treatment. Then you can ask the doctor if you should modify your diet or feeding schedule or elevate the sleep surface using a wedge or special sling for reflux.

A lactation specialist with experience with reflux (or another Reflux Mom) may be able to help you with positioning, latching on and other issues that may increase comfort for your baby during nursing.

There is a lot of info on this site about positioning and feeding. I would be happy to guide you to the information as you search for answers.

Best wishes,

Jan Gambino

The Reflux Mom