Reflux - How normal is normal?

[Scottishnewmum]

I am constantly being told by doctors that reflux is normal in babies and my baby is fine because she is gaining weight. But how normal is it for a baby to be in constant discomfort? To choke on her saliva? To be very often unable to sleep or stay on her back? I have explained that I think it is silent reflux and I am always told that this is normal. Is it? My baby was on omeprazole for a week but a different doctor took her off it because he said it wouldn't help her (and it hasn't so far). But she seems so uncomfortable all the time. Is this really normal?

Im a first time mum with a baby with reflux.
What you describe is what we experienced in the first month. It was hard.
Baby couldnt sleep as the acid was creeping back up her oseophagus and making her uncomfortable all night.
She would make retching noises during feeds, cough before swallowing and arch her back in pain.
She rarely cried with it though.

We researched and came up with silent reflux as she didnt really bring anything up but had all the symptoms of it.
GP didnt dismiss us but gave us prescription formula because it could be CMPA.
The following day we ended up at an out of hours GP who gave us infant Gaviscon to try.
Eventually a paediatrician gave us Omeprazole and its been a game changer.
We noticed an immediate difference when we gave the omeprazole, but after a few days I questioned whether it was working or not.
Paediatrician did say it can take several weeks to have a proper effect, and he was right.
She is a different baby on it now. Its really helped (in combination with Gaviscon and prescription milk).
GP's ive found to be very resistant to prescribe for my daughter. They have been quick to refer me to a paediatrician instead. Maybe you can ask for that?

Agreed, paediatrician is better.
There is a reluctance to prescribe omeprazole as there is a monopoly on the company that is actually licensed to produce it. hence it costs more.

It took about 2 weeks for it to kick in for my son but the difference was amazing. Weaned off it at around 18 months.