Abstract
Objective: To identify infant feeding problems associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease in childhood. Bibliographic review: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has a multifactorial cause and corresponds to a chronic dysfunction resulting from the retrograde flow of gastric content into the esophagus. Frequent exposure of gastric contents in the esophagus can cause a defect in the lower esophageal sphincter, which acts as an anti-reflux barrier. Therefore, this dysfunction may favor the occurrence of transitory relaxations of this sphincter, causing an increased predisposition to GERD. In children, gastroesophageal reflux manifests itself in a physiological way, however, when concomitant to different symptoms and complications, usually resulting from feeding problems, it can cause the development of GERD, whose most common manifestations are heartburn and regurgitation, symptoms that can influence negatively on the quality of life of the child and his family. Final considerations: GERD manifests itself in different ways, causing very wide signs and symptoms according to the age group. Therefore, it is essential to identify risk groups, be up-to-date with the guidelines, and provide guidance on adequate nutrition in order to minimize their complications and facilitate diagnosis.