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Acid Reflux Baby Not Sleeping: When Reflux Affects Baby’s Sleep

When your baby is dealing with acid reflux, sleep can be a challenging task for both you and your little one. Fortunately, there are strategies that can help…

By SleepBaby.org Editorial Team Published July 14, 2023 Updated July 24, 2026 5 min read

Editorial scene illustrating acid reflux baby not sleeping: when reflux affects baby’s sleep in a bright home setting. — A calm editorial scene reflects acid reflux baby not sleeping: when reflux affects baby’s sleep in a bright home setting.

When your baby is dealing with acid reflux, sleep can be a challenging task for both you and your little one. Fortunately, there are strategies that can help your baby sleep better. In this post, we will discuss acid reflux in babies, its impact on sleep, and how to help your baby sleep comfortably.

Understanding Acid Reflux in Babies

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This can cause discomfort and can often interfere with a baby’s sleep.

Signs Your Baby Might Have Acid Reflux

Symptoms can include frequent spit-up, irritability during or after feedings, coughing, hiccups, refusal to eat, and difficulty sleeping. If you notice these symptoms, consult with your pediatrician to confirm a diagnosis.

How Acid Reflux Affects Baby’s Sleep

Acid reflux can cause discomfort and pain for your baby, which naturally can lead to disrupted sleep. Babies with acid reflux may wake frequently, have trouble falling asleep, or have difficulty staying asleep.

Strategies to Soothe Your Baby

Adjust Feedings

Smaller, more frequent feedings can prevent your baby’s stomach from becoming too full and causing reflux.

Change Baby’s Position

Keeping your baby upright for 20 to 30 minutes after feedings can help reduce reflux by using gravity to keep the stomach contents down.

Consider Your Baby’s Sleeping Position

Elevating the head of the baby’s crib or bassinet can sometimes help reduce reflux during sleep. Always make sure to maintain a safe sleeping environment and speak with your pediatrician before making any changes.

Review Your Baby’s Diet

If you’re breastfeeding, certain foods in your diet could be contributing to your baby’s reflux. If your baby is formula-fed, ask your pediatrician if a different type might be better for your baby.

What are the Symptoms of Silent Reflux in Babies?

Silent reflux is similar to acid reflux, but the baby doesn’t necessarily spit up. Instead, they may show signs of discomfort such as fussiness, coughing, choking, and poor growth.

Acid Reflux and Baby Sleep

Can Acid Reflux Cause a Baby Not to Sleep?

Yes, the discomfort and pain from acid reflux can disrupt your baby’s sleep. It may cause them to wake up frequently or have difficulty falling asleep.

How Can I Help My Reflux Baby Sleep at Night?

There are several strategies you can try to help your reflux baby sleep at night. These include adjusting feedings, keeping your baby upright after feeding, considering a change in your baby’s sleeping position, and reviewing their diet.

Why is My Baby’s Acid Reflux Worse at Night?

Reflux can seem worse at night due to the baby lying flat for extended periods, allowing stomach acid to rise more easily. Also, babies often eat more in the evenings, filling their stomachs, which can exacerbate reflux symptoms.

Reflux Baby Will Only Sleep on My Chest. What Can I Do?

While it’s common for babies with reflux to prefer sleeping on a chest due to the upright position, it’s important to transition them to a safe sleep surface. Try to keep them upright for 20-30 minutes after feeding before laying them down.

How to Get Baby with Acid Reflux to Sleep in Crib?

Making the crib comfortable and familiar can help. You might consider using a doctor-approved crib wedge to elevate the baby’s upper body slightly.

Managing Acid Reflux in Babies

Do Babies with Reflux Fight Sleep?

Yes, the discomfort caused by reflux can lead babies to resist sleep.

Are Babies with Reflux Hard to Settle?

Babies with reflux can indeed be hard to settle due to the discomfort and pain they may be experiencing.

How Long Does Acid Reflux Last in Babies?

Most babies grow out of reflux by the time they’re one year old as their digestive system matures.

What Happens If Reflux Goes Untreated in Babies?

Untreated reflux can lead to complications like poor growth, difficulty swallowing, or damage to the esophagus. If you suspect your baby has reflux, it’s important to consult a pediatrician.

Should I Take My Baby to the Doctor for Acid Reflux?

Yes, if you notice symptoms of acid reflux in your baby, it’s advisable to seek medical advice. Your pediatrician can provide guidance and, if necessary, treatment options.

Strategies to Soothe a Baby with Acid Reflux

What Position Helps Reflux Babies?

Keeping your baby upright after feeding can help prevent reflux. If your baby is sleeping, try elevating the head of the crib or bassinet slightly.

Does Baby Massage Help Reflux?

Gentle abdominal massage may help soothe a baby with reflux. However, it’s important not to do this soon after feeding to avoid aggravating reflux symptoms.

How Do You Burp a Baby with Reflux?

Burp your baby gently and regularly during feeding, about every 2-3 ounces, or switch breast sides. Also, keep them upright for about 20-30 minutes after feeding to help reduce reflux symptoms.

Can Babies Choke on Reflux?

While it’s uncommon, it’s possible for babies to choke on spit-up. Keeping your baby in an upright position during and after feeding can help reduce this risk.

How SleepBaby.org Can Help

Navigating the challenges of a baby with acid reflux can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At SleepBaby.org, we offer a wealth of resources on baby sleep challenges, including acid reflux. Our articles, tips, and strategies can provide practical guidance to help you and your baby find relief and rest.

From understanding the connection between acid reflux and sleep to finding effective solutions, SleepBaby.org is your go-to source for helping your baby sleep better, even with acid reflux. Our goal is to support you on this journey, offering expert advice and insights to help soothe your baby for a good night’s sleep.

Remember, every baby is unique and what works for one might not work for another. Stay patient, consult with your pediatrician, and trust your instincts as a parent. You know your baby best. With time, effort, and the right approach, better sleep can be achieved.

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