Dora, the reliable way to test for GERD is to give a 24 hr pH test. Starting a 9 yr old on medication without sound evidence of need or without a doctor's advice is irresponsible and can be harmful. The FDA is recommending that over the counter pro

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Dora, the reliable way to test for GERD is to give a 24 hr pH test. Starting a 9 yr old on medication without sound evidence of need or without a doctor's advice is irresponsible and can be harmful. The FDA is recommending that over the counter proton pump inhibitors (such as omprazole) only be taken for no more than 14 days and no more than 3 times a year without a doctors consultation. There is also increased risk of fractures associated with prolonged use of acid reflux medications, mainly in people over 50, and an increased risk of an intestinal infection called C. difficles which can cause severe diarrhea. These risks are mainly seen if people take these meds for a year or more.

http://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/news/20100525/fda-warns-of-fracture-risk-from-acid-reflux-drugs

If the boy was gasping for air a good deal during the asthma attack, its possible he ingested air into his stomach which can also cause burping. If this is the only time he was burping reguarly (during the flare) it might be related to that. GERD is also a distinct possibility. Either way its worth bringing up to the doctor for him/her to look into further. If the child is without symptoms other than burping, the doc may try something to see if it improves...but my advice would be to check it out with the doc before you try any medicines.

Ann