The Connection Between Zantac, Acid Reflux and Sleep Apnea
We all know that babies are likely to spit up. However, medical researchers have determined that this regurgitation can contain esophagus-damaging acid. Doctors believe that a baby with this acid reflux condition can experience sleep apnea symptoms as a result, but this can be relieved with Zantac. If all of this is a little hard to swallow in one gulp, let's take it slowly as we explore the connection between Zantac, acid reflux and sleep apnea in infants.
Sleep Apnea, Acid Reflux and Zantac
Sleep apnea is a breathing problem that occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses. There are many possible causes for this condition; in infants this area of the body is still developing and therefore this condition may clear up on its own. That's why parents are advised not to place their infants on their backs while they sleep. Sleep apnea episodes are more likely to occur when the baby is on their back, rather than on their side.
Acid reflux is a condition in which the contents of the stomach travel up the esophagus, usually causing a burning sensation. In babies, parents are familiar with the spitting up that may come after a meal, however, if the infant has a reflux problem, the esophagus may be negatively exposed to acid-like secretions. This, of course, will make the child uncomfortable.
It's believed that acid reflux can cause sleep apnea to occur in babies, and the current trend is to use Zantac. The idea is to decrease the amount of acid produced in the stomach, so when those spitting up episodes occur, they will not trigger sleep apnea symptoms. Although the logic is sound, and can in fact help adults with acid reflux and sleep apnea, giving Zantac to an infant should be only decided by a doctor.
Zantac Dangers for Infants
Since Zantac is currently sold over-the-counter for reflux and apnea, some well-meaning parents may read of the connection between sleep apnea and acid reflux and attempt to treat this condition on their own. This type of Zantac is sold at adult dose levels and would be dangerous for an infant to take. If your baby is waking up frequently during the night, and doesn't seem to be sleeping well, first discuss this with your pediatrician.
It may be possible that the baby is suffering from acid reflux and apnea but the dosage of Zantac needs to be prescribed by a doctor. It's also important to note that Zantac shouldn't be the first course of treatment. There are several things a parent can do to alleviate a baby's spitting up, with the first one being a change in their sleeping position. Not every time a baby regurgitates should it be assumed that a reflux condition is present. Many times this will clear up with time, and as the baby's digestive system matures.
