ABSTRACT
Infant irritability is commonly attributed to oesophagitis presumed to be caused by pathological gastro-esophageal reflux and treatment with anti reflux medications has become popular, despite the lack of evidence about its efficacy. Frequent or prolonged episodes of acid reflux may cause irritation or inflammation of the lower oesophagus, which may have a role in infant irritability. The lack of empirical knowledge about the role of reflux in infant distress prompted a prospective research study of otherwise healthy infants admitted to The Royal Children’s Hospital for investigation of persistent irritability. Maternal report of improvements in infant crying or other aspects of behaviour were similar for infants who had been on anti-reflux or placebo medications. Parents who are frightened about their babies becoming “too dependent” may need developmental guidance explaining that infants need to build a sense of security and trust in a responsive world before they are able to manage more on their own and settle themselves.
