What is Silent Reflux?
Silent reflux can be very confusing; there may be no obvious signs of gastro-oesophageal reflux (such as vomiting) and the child generally isn’t ‘silent’.
If they feed as a means of soothing their pain i.e are comfort feeders as well, then poor growth may not be an issue, and they may in fact have huge weight gains. This can also contribute to a delay in diagnosis.
For more information on signs and symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux, please see the article ‘How Reflux Presents’. If you suspect your child may have reflux (either gastro-oesophageal reflux or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), or have any questions or concerns, it is important to discuss them with your child’s doctor or child health nurse.
Points to remember
- Not all children suffering from reflux actually vomit; some may have what is termed ‘silent’ reflux – where the stomach contents only come part way up the oesophagus. Any form of reflux may disturb the child and cause problems.
- Parents may notice any of the other signs of reflux apart from the obvious one – vomiting/regurgitation. They may hear the baby or child reflux, or see them swallow repeatedly, and see no evidence of it.
- Some children can have silent reflux that presents with asthma or ear, nose and throat issues, with no obvious signs of reflux e.g. regurgitation.
Download printable version What is Silent Reflux
© Written by Glenda Blanch, RISA Inc member and author of “Reflux Reality: A Guide for Families” in association with RISA Inc; revised 2010.
Additional information on gastro-oesophageal reflux is provided in our book “Reflux Reality: A Guide for Families”.
RISA Inc – families supporting families
Information reviewed by:
Dr Anthony Catto-Smith, Director, Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne. Victoria. AustraliaWith the exception of Professor Geoff Cleghorn’s presentation which is his own work.
Last updated: July 2021