As parents, we often associate infant spit-up with a simple burp or overfeeding. But what if those frequent/large spit-ups, or even excessive crying, are linked to something more? Emerging research suggests a strong connection between infant oral function and common issues like acid reflux and colic.
Understanding Infant Oral Function
Oral function encompasses more than just feeding. It involves a complex interplay of:
- Sucking: Efficiently drawing milk from breast or bottle.
- Swallowing: Moving milk from the mouth to the stomach.
- Breathing: Coordinating breathing with sucking and swallowing.
- Oral Motor Skills: The strength and coordination of facial muscles, tongue, and jaw. (often affected by full body muscles)
The Link to Reflux and Colic
When these oral functions aren’t working optimally, it can lead to:
- Inefficient Feeding: Poor sucking or swallowing can cause babies to swallow air, leading to gas and discomfort, often mistaken for colic.
- Increased Reflux: Weak oral motor skills can hinder the proper sealing of the esophagus, allowing stomach acid to flow back up, causing reflux.
- Prolonged Feeding Times: Struggling to feed can frustrate babies, leading to crying and fussiness, further exacerbating reflux and colic symptoms.
- Low/Slow Weight Gain: Babies who are frustrated or sleepy while feeding may not enthusiastically feed as we would expect leading to babies not seeking the bottle or breast as often as they need. In addition, large amounts of spit up may result in a lack of sufficient calorie intake contributing to slow weight gain.
Signs of Oral Function Challenges
- Excessive Spit-up or Vomiting
- Choking or Gagging During Feeds
- Clicking Sounds While Sucking
- Difficulty Latching (both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding)
- Extended Feeding Times
- Fussiness or Arching During Feeds
- Sleepiness Early Into Feeds
- Body Tension (such as torticollis)
What Can Parents Do?
- Consult a Professional: If you suspect an oral function issue, consult a speech-language pathologist, pediatric occupational or physical therapist, or pediatric dentist expertise in this area. (Do your research! There is a lack of professionals with the knowledge needed to successful treat these conditions).
- Rule Out Medical Causes: Sometimes colic and reflux can be signs of a more serious underlying condition such as Cows-milk protein allergy. This condition is also associated with stool changes (mucus, blood and diarrhea), respiratory symptoms (chronic congestion and mucus), and skin condition (full body rashes and eczema). Make sure to speak with your pediatrician about testing your child’s diaper if you suspect they may have CMPA.
- Pacifier Use: Pacifiers can help strengthen sucking muscles.
- Tummy Time: Encourages head control and strengthens muscles used in feeding.
- Positioning: Keep baby upright during and after feeds to minimize reflux.
- Pacing Feeds: Allowing breaks during feeds can help reduce air intake.
Early Intervention is Key
Addressing oral function challenges early on cannot only alleviate reflux and colic symptoms but also promote healthy oral development and feeding habits. By understanding the connection between oral function and these common infant issues, parents can take proactive steps to ensure their little ones thrive.
Is your baby struggling with reflux or colic? I can help! As a Certified Pediatric Physician Associate and Sleep and Feeding Consultant, I specialize in identifying the root causes of these issues. Book a Free Consultation Today to learn how we can improve your baby’s comfort and well-being.
