Question
My sister’s baby is premature, and after 40-plus days, we noticed that her belly is very swollen and there are firm lumps upon touch. However, she is not constipated, having 4 to 5 loose bowel movements daily, and her face turns purple-red during defecation, which is very strenuous for her. How should we handle this situation?
Answer
This situation is definitely abnormal. In severe cases, it should be treated actively under a doctor’s guidance. You can give the baby some gastrointestinal regulating medicine under a doctor’s supervision to prevent it from affecting the baby’s normal development. It might be due to poor weight gain and slight abdominal distension. Pay attention to feeding, drink more water, and pay attention to care. Abdominal massage can help improve symptoms caused by intestinal dysfunction. Generally, it can cause bowel obstruction and abdominal distension. Your situation requires active medication treatment, with the first priority being rest.