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What is GERD in Children: Common Signs & Treatment

By Dr. Nidhi Rawal in Paediatric (Ped) Gastroenterology

Feb 04 , 2026

Stomach pain, frequent vomiting, or chest discomfort in children is often dismissed as indigestion. However, when these symptoms occur repeatedly, they may indicate Acid Reflux or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a condition increasingly seen in school-going children due to changing lifestyles and dietary habits.

At Max Hospital Gurugram, paediatric gastroenterologists are seeing a growing number of children affected by GERD, impacting their appetite, sleep, and overall growth.

What Is GERD in Children?

GERD occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the food pipe (oesophagus), causing irritation. While occasional reflux can be normal, persistent symptoms require medical evaluation to prevent complications.

Common Signs of GERD in School-Going Children

Symptoms of GERD in children may differ from adults. Parents should look out for:

Frequent stomach pain or a burning sensation in the chest
Recurrent vomiting or regurgitation
Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
Chronic cough or throat clearing
Hoarseness of voice
Difficulty or pain while swallowing
Poor appetite or refusal to eat
Disturbed sleep due to discomfort
Poor weight gain or unexplained weight loss

Warning signs such as blood in vomit, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing need immediate medical attention.

Why Is GERD Increasing in Children?

Several factors contribute to acid reflux in school-going children:

Unhealthy eating habits: Junk food, fried items, chocolates, and fizzy drinks
Sedentary lifestyle: Excessive screen time and lack of physical activity
Obesity: Increased abdominal pressure worsens reflux
Stress: Academic pressure and anxiety affect gut health
Underlying conditions: Food allergies or delayed digestion

How Is GERD Diagnosed?

At Max Hospital Gurugram, diagnosis involves a detailed medical history, growth assessment, and dietary review. In selected cases, further tests such as upper GI endoscopy or pH monitoring may be advised to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatment of GERD in Children

Treatment is individualised and focuses on long-term relief.

Lifestyle and dietary changes are the first step:

Small, frequent meals
Avoid spicy, fried, and acidic foods
Reduce chocolates and aerated drinks
Encourage regular physical activity
Avoid lying down immediately after meals

If symptoms persist, doctor-prescribed medications may be used to reduce acid production and protect the food pipe. Self-medication is not recommended in children.

When Should Parents Consult a Specialist?

Consult a paediatric gastroenterologist if symptoms last more than 2–3 weeks, affect sleep or school performance, or lead to poor appetite or growth issues.

Expert Paediatric Gastro Care at Max Hospital, Gurugram

Max Hospital Gurugram offers comprehensive paediatric gastroenterology services with child-friendly diagnostics and evidence-based treatment. Our experts focus on restoring gut health and ensuring healthy growth and development.

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