Gastro-oesophageal reflux is the commonest cause of vomiting in infancy. Around 40% of infants regurgitate their feeds to a certain extent so there is a degree of overlap with normal physiological processes.

Risk factors

• preterm delivery
• neurological disorders

Features

• typically develops before 8 weeks
• vomiting/regurgitation following feeds
• Arching of the back
• Drawing up the knees into the chest

Diagnosis is usually made clinically

Management

Conservative

• advise regarding position during feeds - 30 degree head-up
• infants should sleep on their backs as per standard guidance to reduce the risk of cot death
• Keep cot in slight incline
• ensure infant is not being overfed (as per their weight) and consider a trial of smaller and more frequent feeds