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Writer's pictureRadiant Waves Chiro

How to Differentiate Between Colic, Silent Reflux, and Other Common Baby Issues

As a parent, you have an innate ability to sense when something isn't quite right with your child. Maybe you've noticed a persistent cough or your little one seems unusually fussy after eating. You've consulted your pediatrician, only to be told it's "just a phase" or that they'll "grow out of it." But what if there's more to the story?

Understanding Silent Reflux

Silent reflux, also known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. It's associated with various symptoms, including colic, constipation, breathing difficulties, and general discomfort. However, these symptoms are just the tip of the iceberg—they don't tell the whole story.

What Exactly is Silent Reflux?

Silent reflux occurs when stomach acid and other fluids flow back into the throat and voice box, causing irritation and inflammation. Unlike gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), silent reflux often lacks obvious symptoms like heartburn or vomiting, making it particularly challenging to diagnose, especially in infants.


Dr. Jodi Wiechman adjusting a baby with colic

Recognizing the Signs and Root Cause

As a parent, you're best positioned to observe changes in your child's behavior and health. Common signs of silent reflux in children include:

  1. Hoarseness

  2. Chronic cough

  3. Difficulty swallowing

  4. Recurrent ear infections

  5. Asthma-like symptoms

However, these symptoms alone don't paint the full picture. To truly understand and address silent reflux, we need to look deeper at its root causes.

While symptoms provide valuable clues, they're just the beginning. To effectively address silent reflux, we must examine which bodily systems might be struggling. Is it primarily a digestive issue? A respiratory problem? Or does it stem from something even more fundamental—the nervous system?

The Perfect Storm

Often, silent reflux can be traced back to what we call "The Perfect Storm." This refers to a combination of factors that can lead to nervous system dysregulation:

  1. Prenatal maternal stress

  2. Birth interventions

  3. Early life trauma

These factors can shift the nervous system from its natural rest-and-relax state (parasympathetic) into fight-or-flight mode (sympathetic). This dysregulation, known as subluxation, can significantly impact digestive function through:

  • Impaired motility

  • Altered secretion

  • Inflammation

The result? A cascade of issues that can manifest as silent reflux.

Taking Charge of Your Child's Health

As a parent, you can advocate for your child's health and seek solutions that address the root cause of their discomfort. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Trust your instincts: If something feels off, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion or explore holistic approaches.

  2. Look beyond the symptoms: While addressing immediate discomfort is important, consider options that delve into underlying causes.

  3. Consider a neurological approach: Specialized chiropractic care focusing on the nervous system can offer a unique perspective on silent reflux and its treatment.

  4. Explore non-invasive diagnostic tools: Advanced technologies like Neurological INSiGHT Scans can help identify nervous system dysfunction related to silent reflux.

  5. Embrace a holistic view of health: Remember that your child's body is an interconnected system. Addressing nervous system imbalances can have far-reaching effects on their overall well-being.

A Path Forward

At Radiant Waves Chiropractic, we understand the frustration and helplessness parents often feel when dealing with silent reflux. Our approach focuses on restoring balance to the nervous system through gentle, neurologically-focused adjustments. By addressing the root cause, we aim to not only alleviate the symptoms of silent reflux but also optimize your child's overall health and development.


Don't wait for your child's condition to worsen. Take the first step towards finding relief and long-term solutions for your little one. Reach out to our office today to learn more about our unique, drug-free approach to addressing silent reflux and other childhood health concerns. If you're not local to us, check out the PX Docs directory to find a PX Doc near you.


By seeking answers, exploring root causes, and considering holistic approaches, you're taking an active role in ensuring a happier, healthier future for your child!

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