Question
A female infant, 22 days old, is in good condition. Symptoms include mild coughing, a small amount of runny nose, severe nasal congestion, and easy spitting up of milk after feeding, leading to waking up and inability to sleep comfortably.
Answer
The spitting up of milk in this newborn is a physiological phenomenon due to the incomplete development of the esophageal sphincter muscles. During feeding, it is important to ensure that the baby fully latches onto the nipple and avoid overfeeding. After feeding, gently pat the baby’s back to expel air from the stomach. When moving the baby, be gentle and minimize vigorous movements. During sleep, position the baby on its side, and assist in turning the head if vomiting occurs to prevent risks of aspiration pneumonia or suffocation. This condition usually improves gradually after 4-6 months.