Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants On this page: - What is
gastroesophageal reflux (GER)? - What are the symptoms of GER? -
How is GER diagnosed? - What is the treatment for GER? - Points
to Remember - Hope through Research - For More Information What
is gastroesophageal reflux (GER)? Gastroesophageal reflux (GER)
occurs when stomach contents reflux, or back up, into the
esophagus during or after a meal. The esophagus is the tube that
connects the mouth to the stomach. A ring of muscle at the
bottom of the esophagus opens and closes to allow food to enter
the stomach. This ring of muscle is called the lower esophageal
sphincter (LES). The LES normally opens to release gas after
meals. With infants, when the LES opens, stomach contents often
reflux into the esophagus and out the mouth, resulting in
regurgitation, or spitting up, and vomiting. GER can also occur
when babies cough, cry, or strain.[Top] What are the symptoms of
GER? GER is common in healthy infants. More than half of all
babies experience reflux