Question

Dear doctor, I would like to ask why do babies sneeze milk out of their noses?

Answer

The reason babies sneeze milk out of their noses is that their stomachs are horizontal, with a small capacity and a wide esophageal sphincter that does not close properly. The pylorus connecting to the small intestine is relatively tight. When babies suckle, they often inhale air, causing milk to easily reflux into the mouth and lead to vomiting. Here are some methods that can help prevent baby vomit:

  1. Use the appropriate feeding position: Try to keep the baby in a semi-reclined position during feeding, with the body at a 45-degree angle, allowing gastric juices to naturally flow into the small intestine, reducing the chance of vomiting. Avoid feeding the baby lying down.
  2. Ensure the baby burps after feeding: Hold the baby upright and gently pat the back until they burp, which helps expel the air swallowed during the feeding process.