Question
A one-month-old male infant, on a mixed feeding regimen, has been experiencing abdominal distension for about 20 days. He finds it difficult to sleep between 4 and 7 AM, accompanied by kicking his legs vigorously. After defecation, the symptoms are somewhat relieved, but the stool is hard and contains milk curds. He also has thrush. What are the possible causes of newborn abdominal distension and the corresponding measures?
Answer
Abdominal distension in newborns can be caused by various factors, including an immature digestive system, feeding methods, and imbalanced intestinal flora. For this male infant’s condition, some methods to relieve abdominal distension can be considered, such as using umbilical cord patches or probiotics. As for thrush, which is an oral fungal infection, the following treatment methods can be adopted: first, apply 1% gentian violet to the mouth; second, mix clotrimazole powder with sesame oil and apply it to the mouth; third, grind antifungal tablets into powder and mix with sesame oil to apply; fourth, apply 5% sodium bicarbonate to the mouth. It is recommended to try all four methods.