Question
My child has been vomiting frequently these days, sometimes with milk coming out of both the nose and mouth, and the face often turns red. How can I solve this for my child?
Answer
Hello; Vomiting is a common symptom of the digestive system. Vomiting includes both vomiting and regurgitation. If a few mouthfuls of milk return to the mouth, it is considered regurgitation, not vomiting, and it does not affect growth and development. Generally, it disappears around 6 months after birth. Newborns have a small stomach capacity, are in a horizontal position, and their esophagus is relatively relaxed. The sphincter muscle connecting to the esophagus is underdeveloped, and the nervous regulation function of intestinal peristalsis, as well as the secretion function of gastric acid and protease, are also poor, making newborns, especially premature infants, prone to vomiting. The most common cause of vomiting is improper feeding, accounting for about 1/4 of newborn vomiting cases. It is mainly due to overfeeding, inappropriate concentration, milk temperature not being suitable, the nipple hole being too small, lying flat immediately after feeding, moving the baby too much too soon, and intense crying. Mild vomiting and regurgitation have little impact on the body. Repeated vomiting can lead to water-electrolyte and acid-base balance disorders, manifesting as dehydration, convulsions, and coma. Severe vomiting can cause vomit to be inhaled into the trachea, leading to aspiration pneumonia. It can also block the airways of weak infants and premature infants, causing asphyxial death. When a child vomits, parents should first check the feeding method and correct any improper practices in a timely manner. When feeding or giving water, hold the baby upright and let them rest on their mother’s shoulder while gently patting their back to expel air from the stomach before putting them down. Try to move the newborn as little as possible for half an hour after feeding. Gentle handling during diaper changes is also important. Lying on the right side or raising the head of the bed can help food in the stomach enter the intestines.