Prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux during the Infant’s First Year of Life in the Pediatric Department of Imam Reza Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the most common esophageal disorder, which occurs at all ages. GER is defined as the passage of gastric contents into the esophagus. GER disease (GERD), which is a long-term complication, is a common pediatric problem. Clinical manifestations of GERD in infants include regurgitation, irritability, choking, gagging, vomiting, poor weight gain, and respiratory disorder. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of GER and its symptoms in infants during the first year of life. Methods: This study was performed on 75 infants younger than one year of age, who were admitted to the pediatric department of Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad during 3 months. Results: The current study included 75 infants younger than one year of age, who were admitted to the pediatric department of Imam Reza Hospital. GER was reported in 66% of these infants. The most common symptom of reflux was regurgitation, reported one to seven times a day (60% of the cases at 3.5 months). The other reported symptoms were irritability (16%), choking (10%), and failure to thrive (0.3%), respectively. Conclusion: GER is a common problem during infancy, and complaints of regurgitation are common during the first year of life. Therefore, understanding GER symptoms and detection of GERD are of high significance.