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Asthma and Infant Reflux / GERD - A Definite Connection
It is well-known that there is a definite reflux-asthma connection, and that of those who suffer from asthma, approx. 30-90% have reflux.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a common respiratory disease that causes the airways of the lungs to tighten. It is unknown why some people get asthma and others do not. One of the most common causes of asthma symptoms in infants and children under the age of five is a respiratory virus.
Is it Asthma?
IN INFANTS, the symptoms include rattly chest and cough, rapid breathing, losing breath, and having difficulty sucking when nursing. Wheezing is UNUSUAL in infants under the age of 18 months.
IN TODDLERS, the symptoms are wheezing, constant cough, and coughing when they are active, laugh hard, or become upset. Coughing may also be persistant during the night.
IN SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN, the symptoms are wheezing, coughing, and trouble breathing. They may have difficulty participating in some activities such as sports, and constant tiredness may interfere with their concentration.
Another symptom of asthma is an increased respiration rate by 50%.
Respiration rates of normal infants/toddlers
Newborns: 30-60 breathes/minute
1st year: 20-40 breathes/minute
2nd year: 20-30 breathes/minute
Ashtma and Reflux
Research in 2002 (as published in the Journal of Asthma) was unable to determine if asthma triggers reflux, reflux triggers asthma, or both.
There are two different ways reflux is currently thought to contribute to asthma symptoms.
1) When reflux occurs, the acid can rise up the esophagus and enter the airway, which in turn causes inflammation and swelling, which leads to asthmatic symptoms (wheezing and coughing).
2) When reflux occurs and the acid reaches the esophagus, it may stimulate nerve endings that cause the airway to contract, leading to asthmatic symptoms (shortness of breath).
Parents of young children and infants that have symptoms of reflux should pay close attention to see if there are asthmatic symptoms present as well. Watch and listen. Consult your doctor with the observations you have made.
Written by: TwinMum, Sarah
Read more about Reflux Information:
Colic or Infant Reflux?,
Conditions that Mimic Infant Reflux,
Reflux and Dental Problems,
Reflux and Speech,
Twins with Infant reflux,
Can Infections be Caused by Reflux?
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