Question

What is neonatal swallowing syndrome, and if a newborn cannot normally eat within the first three days of life, vomiting after eating, and has been treated with intravenous fluids at a county-level hospital for three days without improvement, is this condition treatable?

Answer

Neonatal swallowing syndrome, also known as pharyngeal syndrome, typically occurs during the birthing process. Newborns may experience vomiting due to swallowing excessive amniotic fluid, maternal blood, or vaginal secretions. If these secretions are contaminated by meconium or bacteria, they can irritate the gastric mucosa, leading to excessive secretion of gastric acid and mucus. This condition is often seen in infants born through difficult labor, asphyxia, or post-term delivery. Mild cases usually do not require special treatment, while severe vomiting requires attention to maintain a lateral position to prevent aspiration and appropriate fasting, along with supportive treatment. The baby usually recovers within 1 to 2 days after swallowing fluid and vomiting it out.