Patient's question:
My baby is a little over a month old. They always choke while feeding, and milk often comes out of their nostrils. Sometimes, they hold their breath for a long time and can't catch their breath. What should I do about my baby choking on milk from their nose?Doctor's answer:
The sensory and neuromuscular coordination functions of the oropharyngeal mucosa in infants and young children are not yet fully developed, making them prone to spitting up and choking. In mild cases of spitting up or choking, the baby can adjust their breathing and swallowing movements on their own, and it is generally not harmful to inhale into the trachea. Close observation of the baby's breathing condition and lip color is sufficient. However, severe choking can lead to milk aspiration into the trachea, causing cyanosis, difficulty breathing, or even asphyxiation, which requires emergency treatment. After feeding, hold the baby upright and gently pat their back to expel gastric air.