According to Reflux.org, 7 million children and teens in the United States suffer from acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when a muscle that links the bottom of the esophagus with the stomach doesn't do its job properly. The job of this muscle, the LES, is to prevent stomach acids from coming back up. If a person eats too much, sometimes the LES can't perform its job correctly. Another cause of acid reflux is a hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia is an opening in the diaphragm where the espohagus and stomach join together. A hiatal hernia prevents the LES from being able to close completely. Symptoms may occur immediately following eating or a few hours later. This varies depending on the individual.
Instructions
1. Evaluate your teen's eating habits. Does your teen consume a lot of fast foods? Some fast foods and snacks have preservatives and spices in them that may kick start acid reflux. While cheeseburgers and tacos may be quick and taste great, they're not always the best thing for those individuals who suffer from acid reflux. If you must eat out, opt for the healthier and less spicy menu items such as salad or a non-tomato based soup.
2. Evaluate your teen's lifestyle. How often does your teen eat snacks? Often times, a healthy snack here and there will keep your teen's hunger at bay. As a result, they'll be less likely to indulge in unhealthy foods which may trigger an episode of acid reflux. Healthy snack ideas include crackers, fruit, nuts and vegetables. If your teen has to have those easy-to-grab snack foods, opt for healthier alternatives. Rather than potato chips, get whole wheat crackers. Many teens are very active and participate in sports. Eating and then immediately practicing a sport can trigger an episode of acid reflux. Encourage your teen to wait a little bit after eating before they practice a sport or participate in other physical activities.
3. Watch the spicy foods. Everyone likes a little spicy food now and then. However, some spicy foods can set off acid reflux. Tomato-based products and some milk products aggravate acid reflux. While it is difficult to completely eliminate these from your diet, it is a wise idea to consume them in moderation. This will help reduce the number of Acid Reflux episodes that your teen experiences.
4. Handle your teen's acid reflux issues at school. Many teens want to just fit in at school and having acid reflux issues may create some difficulties. Take a trip to school with your teen and talk with the school nurse about your child's issues. If there isn't a school nurse readily available at your school, encourage your child to carry around antacids such as Tums or Maalox. Also, encourage your child to carry around a bottle of water and snacks. This way your teen is prepared if acid reflux rears its ugly head.
5. Deal with the sudden symptoms of acid reflux. One of the best things an individual can do if he or she suffers from acid reflux is to always be prepared. Carry around antacids, a bottle of water and snacks with you at all times. That way, if acid reflux kicks in, you have some tools to fight it and win the battle.
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