Patient's question:
The child is two months old and often exhibits episodes of dry coughing after feeding. Sometimes, this phenomenon also occurs while the child is sleeping.Doctor's answer:
This is a normal phenomenon. This is because the stomach of a newborn is in a horizontal position, and the lower esophageal sphincter is also relatively relaxed. Once the intake of milk is slightly excessive, spitting up can occur. As the child grows older, the stomach gradually becomes more vertical, and the lower esophageal sphincter becomes stronger. The frequency of spitting up will gradually decrease and stop around seven or eight months of age. Preventing a baby from spitting up or vomiting depends on the correct feeding practices of the parents. For example, when breastfeeding, the baby should be held at an angle, not while lying down. If bottle-feeding, the nipple hole should be appropriately sized, and the milk should not be too hot or too cold. It is also essential to avoid inhaling air. After feeding, avoid moving the baby. Instead, the baby should be leaned against an adult, with their back gently patted to expel the air swallowed into the stomach.