Toddlers often suffer from digestive issues. OTC medications may bring some relief. But experts are suggesting modifications to the child’s diet and lifestyle can be more helpful- and they won’t produce any unwanted side effects.
Read on to find out what may be causing your little one’s tummy aches and how to get rid of them.
What Is Indigestion?
Indigestion or dyspepsia refers to pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen that occurs occasionally or often. Doctors often associate it with eating and drinking. Recommended treatments include OTC medications and changes in diet.
What Dietary Changes Can Cause Indigestion
Many foods and drinks can cause indigestion. Common ones include:
- Foods high in fat
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
- Citrus products
- Tomatoes
- Carbonated drinks
- Onions
- Peppermint
A healthy diet may be beneficial in treating indigestion. It may also prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn. If you notice your child experiences the onset of indigestion symptoms after they consume certain foods, try eliminating them from their diet to see if they produce results.
Lifestyle Changes May Help with Indigestion
Certain lifestyle changes may also help your child’s digestive health. You may reduce symptoms by:
- Not letting your child lie down within 3 hours of eating a meal
- Making sure your child’s head is elevated when they sleep
- Feeding your child smaller meals instead of a few large meals
Medications
If your child is experiencing indigestion that isn’t going away with food and lifestyle changes, your doctor may recommend medications. Common indigestion medications include:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors: PPIs reduce stomach acid but may produce side effects like upset stomach, diarrhea, and headache.
- H2 Blockers: H2 blockers also reduce stomach acid. But they are not as effective as PPIs in terms of healing the esophagus. They can also cause side effects like headaches, upset stomach, or an increased risk of infections.
- Antacids: Antacids can relieve symptoms of mild GERD but can cause diarrhea and constipation. Children should not use them long-term.
Behavioral Treatments
Your child may be suffering from indigestion due to behavioral or psychological issues. If this is the case, do your best to promote a stress-free environment. Encourage them to participate in stress-relieving exercises.
Surgery
If your child has GERD, they may not respond to conservative treatments. Surgery may be necessary.
GERD can usually be treated by minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. However, it can lead to some complications.
Alternative Remedies
Many alternative remedies have been shown to minimize indigestion. These include:
- Mint leaves
- Chamomile
- Peppermint oil
- Ginger
- Cumin
- Aloe vera juice
- Fennel seed
- Apple cider vinegar
It can be heartbreaking to see a child deal with digestive issues. Fortunately, relief may be as simple as a few lifestyle and dietary changes. Here’s hoping you find the remedies that keep your child pain-free.
