What Causes Acid Reflux in Kids? 

A still-developing digestive system is usually what causes acid reflux in kids. The muscle that keeps stomach contents in place is not fully mature in babies, which is why spit-up is so common in the first year. In older children, reflux is more often tied to overeating, certain foods like citrus, chocolate, or fried food, extra body weight, or eating too quickly before bed.

Most infants outgrow reflux by 12 to 18 months as this muscle strengthens. When symptoms continue past infancy, happen frequently, or interfere with sleep, feeding, or weight gain, a child may be diagnosed with GERD. In children, this is a more ongoing form of reflux that benefits from a dedicated treatment plan rather than waiting it out. If your child's reflux overlaps with other stomach concerns, our stomach issues page covers related causes worth ruling out.

Types of Acid Reflux in Children

Acid reflux in kids occurs when the contents of the stomach make their way back up into the esophagus, causing a burning feeling, spit-up, or discomfort after eating. It is common in babies and often improves with age. Frequent reflux that causes pain, interrupts feeding or sleeping should be evaluated by your pediatric provider. Here are some things our providers frequently see in Alaska:

• Infant reflux (GER), spitting up that is common in babies and usually resolves on its own.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more persistent form that causes discomfort, feeding trouble, or poor weight gain.

• Silent reflux, where stomach acid moves upward without visible spit-up, often showing up as coughing, gagging, or fussiness instead.

• Reflux triggered by overeating, certain foods, or eating too close to bedtime.

Acid Reflux Symptoms in Kids

Acid reflux symptoms in kids vary quite a bit by age, and knowing what to expect at each stage can help you decide how concerned to be.

Infants and toddlers may have:

• Frequent spit-up or wet burps, especially after feedings

• Arching the back or fussing during or right after eating

• Trouble gaining weight or refusing to finish bottles or meals

• A hoarse cry, frequent hiccups, or a mild cough after feeding

School-age children, preteens, and teens may have:

• A burning feeling in the chest area or throat after meals

• A sour taste in the mouth, especially when lying down

• A nagging cough or throat clearing that will not go away

• Nausea or stomach discomfort that tends to show up after eating

Acid reflux in children can look different depending on age and how often it happens. Some kids only deal with it occasionally after a big meal, while others have a form that shows up daily and needs ongoing management.

Acid Reflux Treatment in Children

Acid reflux treatment in children depends on the child's age, how often symptoms happen, and how much they are affecting daily life. After talking through your child's symptoms and feeding or eating habits, our pediatric providers will recommend the option that fits best, which may include:

• Smaller, more frequent feedings or meals to ease the load on your child's stomach

• Keeping your child upright for a period of time after eating or feeding

• Adjusting formula, feeding position, or specific foods that seem to trigger symptoms

• Over-the-counter or prescription medication to reduce stomach acid, when appropriate

• A referral for further evaluation if reflux keeps coming back or is slowing down your child's growth

Most children improve once the right adjustments are in place. Our team will also let you know what to watch for at home and when it is time to check back in.

Urgent Care for Acid Reflux in Anchorage: When to Visit 

Urgent care for acid reflux in Anchorage is available through both telemedicine and in-person visits at Alaska Children's Urgent Care and Outreach, and many cases can start with a video visit. During a telemedicine appointment, our providers can review your child's symptoms, feeding or eating patterns, and history, then recommend feeding changes, dietary adjustments, or medication through your local pharmacy when appropriate.

Telemedicine visits are recommended when:

• You want a provider to review your child's spit-up, discomfort, or reflux pattern and discuss next steps

• Your child has mild, occasional reflux without signs of poor weight gain or feeding refusal

• You need guidance on feeding positions, portion sizes, or foods that may be triggering symptoms

• You live in a rural or remote part of Alaska and cannot easily reach our clinic in Anchorage

In-person visits are recommended when:

• A provider needs to examine your child directly or check growth and weight in person

• Your child is refusing feedings, losing weight, or showing signs of dehydration

• Symptoms have not improved with feeding or dietary changes already tried at home

• Your child has persistent coughing, gagging, or discomfort that is disrupting sleep or daily life

Our providers can help you decide on video whether your child needs to come in, so you are never guessing. Telemedicine visits are available statewide, from Anchorage to the smallest rural communities across Alaska, daily from 8 a.m. to midnight.

Why Choose Alaska Children's Urgent Care and Outreach in Anchorage? 

If your child's reflux is not improving, or you want an expert opinion, do not wait it out on your own. Treatment at our urgent care is entirely child-friendly. Our pediatric team offers:

• Same-day appointments

• Providers who specialize in pediatrics

• Telemedicine access from anywhere in Alaska

• A calm, family-centered environment

Every child is valued, and every visit is designed to support both the child and the parent. A quick video visit or a same-day appointment at our Anchorage clinic can help you get answers about your child's reflux without the wait. Book online or call 907-222-5090 to get started. 

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Frequently Asked Questions