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Spitting Up in Infants
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
When babies spit up, the problem is known medically as
gastroesophageal (gas-trow-e-sof-uh-GEE-ul) reflux. In
this condition, food in your child's stomach backs up into the
esophagus (ee-SOF-uh-gus), the tube that leads down to the
stomach. The problem typically starts in the first weeks of
life, is rarely seen in children more than 1 year old, and
often disappears between the ages of 6 and 12
months.
Causes
The opening between the esophagus and stomach fails to
close completely.
Signs/Symptoms
Soon after eating, your child may
spit up 1 to 2 mouthfuls of food. This can occur with or
without force. If the condition becomes serious enough, it can
cause the child to choke or vomit blood. Because of the
vomiting, the baby may not gain enough weight.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
Do not overfeed your child; it makes the problem
worse. At each feeding, give at least 1 ounce less than you
have been giving. Wait at least 2-1/2 hours between
feedings.
-
Burp the baby several times during each feeding. This
will get rid of air in the stomach and help prevent the
spitting up.
-
Keep your child in an upright position for a while
after each feeding. You may hold the baby or use a
frontpack, backpack, or swing. Avoid using an infant
seat.
-
For sleeping, place the baby on the stomach or
side--not flat on the back. If possible, raise the head end
of the crib a bit. DO NOT put the child on a
pillow.
-
Don't hug or play hard with the baby right after
meals. When you change diapers, be careful not to push the
child's legs up against the stomach. Don't close the
diapers too tight.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
Your child continues to spit up.
-
Your child isn't gaining weight
normally.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
The spitting up causes coughing or
choking.
-
Your child spits up blood.
-
Your child vomits forcefully.
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