Baby Frequently Vomiting at Night, Could Gastroesophageal Reflux Be the Cause? Solutions for Digestive Issues Disrupting Sound Sleep

In modern medicine, pediatric gastroesophageal reflux disease is called GERD, referring to gastric acid flowing back into the esophagus. When this occurs in children, vomiting or fussiness during sleep is commonly observed. If overlooked, sleep quality may decline, which can affect the child's growth and development. Because a child's digestive organs are not yet fully developed, control of the lower esophageal sphincter, the junction between the stomach and esophagus, may be inadequate. This is the main reason undigested food or gastric acid flows back into the esophagus. In addition, when feeding on milk or formula, the stomach expands and internal pressure increases, which can worsen symptoms. To address this, adjusting the child's sleep posture, avoiding fried foods and excessive dairy intake, and keeping the child in an upright position for a while after feeding can help. These small adjustments can relieve symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux while positively supporting the child's sleep and growth.