Patient's question:
Doctor,.
Detailed condition and consultation purpose: The baby vomited twice yesterday evening, and she seemed very uncomfortable during vomiting. Afterward, we didn’t observe any other abnormalities. Since she has vomited before, it was always during the day. If she vomits at night, what if we are too deep in sleep to notice it? We are very worried. Please help me!!!
Doctor's answer:
Hello, vomiting is the most common symptom of the digestive system. Vomiting includes both emesis and spitting up. If a small amount of milk flows back into the mouth, it is considered spitting up, not emesis, and does not affect development. It usually disappears around 6 months of age as the child grows older.The stomach capacity of newborns is small and horizontal, with a relatively relaxed esophagus. The cardiac sphincter, which connects to the esophagus, is poorly developed. Additionally, the neuromuscular regulation function of intestinal motility, as well as the secretion of gastric acid and proteases, is also underdeveloped, making newborns, especially premature infants, prone to vomiting.
The most common cause of vomiting is improper feeding, accounting for about 1/4 of all newborn vomiting cases. This is mainly due to overfeeding, incorrect concentration, unsuitable milk temperature, small nipple holes, lying flat immediately after feeding, excessive or early movement of the infant, and severe crying, all of which can cause vomiting.
Mild vomiting and spitting up have little impact on the body. However, repeated vomiting can lead to disturbances in fluid and electrolyte and acid-base balance, manifesting as dehydration, convulsions, or coma. Severe vomiting may cause vomit to be inhaled into the trachea, leading to aspiration pneumonia, blocking the airway of weak or premature infants, and causing suffocation and death.
If a child vomits, parents should first check the feeding method and correct any improper practices promptly. When feeding or giving water, the infant should be held upright, placed on the parent's shoulder, and gently patted on the back to burp and expel air from the stomach before lowering them. For at least 30 minutes after feeding, avoid excessive movement of the newborn. Operations such as changing diapers should be performed gently. Lying on the right side or elevating the head of the bed can help food move from the stomach into the intestines and reduce the risk of vomit being inhaled into the trachea. While adjusting the feeding method, it is also important to observe the infant.