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quizzes experts
If you've chosen to bottlefeed, you'll want to choose
the best formula for your child--a regular formula or perhaps soy
or a hydrolysate variety. Learn what to look for and how to prepare
and use it safely.
experts
How
can I put an end to my baby's continual reflux problem?
Q: My 3-month-old
is constantly spitting up. Could this be a long-term problem? Do you
have any suggestions?
A: When things keep coming up, we call it reflux. Some reflux is normal.
It's a problem if it interferes with a baby's growth or causes pain
(from the tummy acid) or a chronic cough. Reflux is more common in
premature babies.
Sometimes babies
spit up because of an intolerance to their formula (usually the cow's
milk protein or the soy). Start by trying full-hydrolysate formulas,
like Alimentum or Nutramigen.
If you've tried
these formulas and your baby is still spitting up, it's probably a
mechanical issue. It's likely that the valve at the top of her stomach
is still loose, putting pressure on her stomach and propelling some
of her food back up.
Sometimes feeding
smaller amounts more frequently can lessen this; when a baby's stomach
never stretches to full, there is much less force. If this doesn't
work, another formula that might help (for babies who do not have
a problem with milk) is Enfamil AR--it thickens when it hits the tummy
so it is less likely to slosh up.
If these simple
measures do not improve the situation, a visit to the GI doctor is
wise. They can figure out how much of a problem it is and prescribe
medicines for it. Some medications decrease the acid in the tummy
contents, and some speed food through the stomach.
Most kids outgrow
reflux without a problem. It usually gets worse until about 4 or 5
months and then starts to improve. The average age it disappears is
7 months, but it's common for it to last all the way until 18 months.
If it's still there at 18 months, treatment is recommended. Otherwise,
it is not likely to improve until school age. Usually reflux is not
serious, but it can sometimes cause real problems.
Your
should know:
The
information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes
only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical
advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose
or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your
pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any
questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's
condition.
Rebornne Baby. American Baby
