Why Does The Baby Vomit?
Your baby may vomit for many different reasons. It is quite common for a baby to recover during its first weeks of life. This is perfectly normal as the baby is just starting to get used to breastfeeding or bottle feeding, in addition to which his body is still developing.
Below we list a few common causes of vomiting in babies. Causes range from digestive problems to long periods of crying, coughing and motion sickness.
The most common reasons for a baby to vomit
Problems eating
During the first months of life, a child’s nausea is usually associated with problems with eating. If your baby gets too much milk, he may start vomiting.
A much less common cause of vomiting is an allergy to breast milk or milk replacer protein.
Viral or bacterial infection
Respiratory blockages and respiratory illnesses often cause vomiting, especially if the baby also has a cough.
The mucus that builds up in the respiratory system during the flu can also clog the baby’s trachea and trigger the vomiting reflex.
Prolonged crying
Prolonged crying episodes are a common cause of child vomiting. If your baby vomits while crying, but has no other symptoms, there is no need to worry.
Travel sickness by car travel
If the family’s daily routine includes long car trips, motion sickness may be the cause of the baby vomiting.
Travel sickness is caused by the baby’s body swinging with the movements of the car, but the movements of the body have nothing to do with what the eyes see.
Toxic substances
One possible cause of baby vomiting is ingestion of a toxic substance. The most common substances that cause symptoms of poisoning are medicines, cosmetics and plants.
Some foods or unclean water can also cause poisoning for a child.
Intestinal obstructions
Sudden and prolonged vomiting can be a sign of many diseases or ailments, one of which is intestinal obstruction. If your baby vomits in large quantities, does not eat properly, and has other symptoms, you should contact your doctor.
Seizures of vomiting usually do not last long. In most cases, they are not a sign of a serious problem and therefore do not require treatment. However, it is important to ensure that the vomiting child receives adequate fluids. If your baby looks healthy and is of normal weight, there is no need to worry.
When is it time to go to the doctor?
In some rare cases, vomiting is a sign of a serious problem. If you notice any of the symptoms listed below in your child in addition to vomiting, take the child to a doctor’s office:
- Symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth, low tears when crying and less urine
- Fever
- Lack of appetite
- Prolonged (more than 12 hours) and persistent vomiting or profuse vomiting
- Unusual rash
- Drowsiness or irritability
- Swollen stomach
- Mixed vomiting of blood or bile
How to act when a baby vomits?
- Make sure your baby’s fluid balance is maintained. When vomiting, the child loses the fluid needed by the body. That is why it is important to provide your child with plenty of fluids. Avoid artificial juices and soft drinks. If your baby is dehydrated, contact a doctor who can advise on the best hydration or treatment for your child.
- Pay close attention to what your baby is eating. If your baby is already eating solid foods, avoid sweets and other foods that can irritate his stomach. Gradually provide your child with more fluids, cereals, and other easily digestible foods.
- Make sure your baby gets enough rest. Sleep is the best medicine to calm a child. When the baby is asleep, his bowel empties, which can automatically reduce vomiting. Stay close to your baby constantly so you can assist him if he vomits while sleeping.
While a child’s vomiting may seem intimidating to the mother and father, in most cases there is no need to worry. Take the necessary steps to help the child’s body return to normal.
If your baby’s symptoms persist for a long time or if your baby behaves abnormally, contact your doctor.
