Reflux shown on GI, does that mean severe?

[Anonymous]

My 4 month old had an upper GI this morning & it was only ordered after we basically BEGGED for something to be done. We didn’t know for sure if it’s been reflux for 4 months, but we knew something was wrong…lots of spitting up, sometimes projecting, gurgling stomach, constipation, gas but hard to burp, sleep problems…

The upper GI was done, he drank 2oz of the barium stuff, & immed. the reflux showed on the x-rays. I’ve read many many times that upper GI’s aren’t a good indicator of reflux, since they’re a snapshot in time & the baby would have to be having an episode right then & there & it’d have to be noticeable…

So does the fact that it was shown & only after 2oz at that, indicate it might be more severe?

[Anonymous]

it really only shows that they happened to catch a picture of it happening—which at least makes it so your doctor can’t argue the fact.

the amound a baby spits updoesn’t necessarily tell how severe reflux is. the severity of reflux is sometimes figured by cellular changes—this is why an endoscopy with biopsies is so useful in a baby that just doesn’t seem to be improving with meds or other interventions.

i would imagine that some doctors would still label reflux severe, moderate or mild based on other factors, though. i am only going on what our ped gi told me about my own scope. the surgeon that did it couldn’t tell me anything except about how he clipped the ring at the bottom of my esophagus—i was having trouble swallowing and food was getting stuck. the lab report said “severe reflux esophagitis”, but i didn’t think my symptoms were THAT bad, but apparently i had damage in my esophagus.

hopefully, your doc will take some action now!!!

[Anonymous]

hello all,
That is a good question and I guess there is no sure answer.

I think even for adults it si very hard for the doctors to predict any cure or timetable for it to get better.

Mine did not even know what foods may aggravate it, I had to research it more on my own.

[Anonymous]

Quick question for those who have had the Upper GI done….did your baby get constipated for a few days afterwards because of the barium? My son had his Upper GI on Thursday and has had a heck of a time pooping. He went almost two days before pooping and when he is not pooping he is trying to poop and is in a lot of pain and is uncomfortable.

I am just wondering if this is common and if so, how long does the constipation last and how long does the barium stay in the system before it is all out? Any info would be great.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

The barium can be constipating. If he’s having trouble passing it, ask your ped if you should give him something to help him go to get it out.

[Anonymous]

And don’t be surprised if the poop is white and chalkly looking.

Those techs should have told you to give him some water afterwards. poor little guy.

[Author]

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