Gastro-oesophageal reflux and feeding: the speech and language therapist's perspective

Abstract

Babies and children with gastro-oesophageal reflux often have significant feeding difficulties. The symptoms of reflux are described, including the higher risk of aspiration. Babies can present with motor and sensory feeding disorders and can quickly develop aversive reactions to the feeding process. This effect can be long term, and speech and language therapists use various techniques to provide babies and young children with positive sensory experiences to reduce the aversion and promote successful oral feeding. Advice on grading the introduction of textures to the child's diet, messy play and advice on communication and interaction will also form part of the feeding plan. The stress on the parents will be discussed. Research shows that a truly collaborative multidisciplinary approach is likely to be the most successful, encompassing the nutritional, medical, psychosocial, and developmental aspects of the child.