Infant Crying During Feeding: Causes and Solutions

Milk consumption issues?

Hello Doctor,
I would like to ask about my baby who cries while drinking milk (he cries during every feeding).
He also cries after finishing the milk and burping, and cries when his stomach is gurgling during feeding.
Could this be due to an unsuitable formula? My baby is currently 3 months and 16 days old and is drinking Nestlé hydrolyzed formula with probiotics.
He had severe gas issues before, so the doctor prescribed probiotics (Adebi) for him, which he started taking before he was one month old.

However, a few days ago, he started crying while drinking milk and continues to cry after feeding because his stomach keeps gurgling.
Therefore, I bought another type of probiotic from the pharmacy across the street, but the situation hasn’t improved.
What should I do? I have visited a pediatrician, but each time we can only get medication.
The doctor mentioned that colic in children cannot be treated and will improve as they grow older.

The doctor and the pharmacist across the street suggested that it might be due to an unsuitable formula, but I have already switched from Similac to Snow Brand and then to the hydrolyzed formula recommended by the doctor.
If I wait until he is 4 months old to introduce solid foods, should I try to make solid foods his main meals? I apologize for feeling so distressed seeing my baby cry and not knowing what to do.
I would appreciate any further suggestions from you, as I would like to explore other options.
Thank you.

Jun Mami, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/24

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Common symptoms of formula intolerance may include diarrhea, bloody stools, severe vomiting, or the development of rashes.
Newborns are more prone to colic, which tends to improve as they grow older.
There are many reasons for a newborn to cry, and it is not always due to colic.
If you have already switched to a hypoallergenic hydrolyzed protein formula and added probiotics without improvement, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician in a major hospital's neonatal department for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2017/02/24

More Info

Understanding why infants cry during feeding can be a complex issue, as there are numerous factors that can contribute to this behavior. In your case, your baby is 3 months and 16 days old and has been experiencing crying during feeding, even after being fed and burped. This can be distressing for both the baby and the parents, and it’s understandable that you are seeking answers and solutions.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that crying is a common form of communication for infants. They may cry for various reasons, including hunger, discomfort, fatigue, or even the need for attention. In your situation, since your baby is crying during feeding and after feeding, it could indicate several potential issues.

1. Formula Intolerance or Allergy: You mentioned that your baby is on a hydrolyzed formula and has been experiencing gas and discomfort. While hydrolyzed formulas are designed for babies with sensitivities, some infants may still react negatively to certain proteins or ingredients. Symptoms of formula intolerance can include excessive crying, gas, and changes in stool patterns. If you suspect that the formula might not be suitable, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician the possibility of trying a different formula, such as an amino acid-based formula, which is even more hypoallergenic.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER): Another possibility is that your baby may be experiencing gastroesophageal reflux, which can cause discomfort during and after feeding. Symptoms can include crying during feeding, arching of the back, and spitting up. If reflux is suspected, your pediatrician may recommend strategies to manage it, such as feeding in an upright position or using thicker formulas.

3. Colic: Colic is a term used to describe excessive crying in infants, often without an obvious cause. It typically occurs in the first few months of life and can be very distressing for parents. While colic usually resolves on its own by around 3-4 months of age, there are strategies that may help soothe your baby, such as swaddling, gentle rocking, or using white noise.

4. Digestive Discomfort: The "gurgling" sounds you hear during feeding could indicate that your baby is experiencing digestive discomfort. This could be due to gas, constipation, or other gastrointestinal issues. Continuing to use probiotics, as recommended by your pediatrician, may help improve gut health and reduce discomfort.

5. Feeding Techniques: Sometimes, the way a baby is fed can contribute to crying. Ensure that your baby is latching properly if breastfeeding or that the bottle nipple is the right flow for their age if using formula. A slow flow nipple may help prevent the baby from gulping air, which can lead to gas and discomfort.

As for introducing solid foods at around 4 months, it’s essential to consult with your pediatrician before making any changes to your baby’s diet. While some parents choose to introduce solids early, it’s crucial to ensure that your baby is developmentally ready and that it won’t exacerbate any existing issues.

In conclusion, while it can be challenging to determine the exact cause of your baby's crying during feeding, it’s essential to continue working closely with your pediatrician. They can help guide you through the process of identifying any potential issues and finding solutions that work for your baby. Remember, it’s okay to seek a second opinion if you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed. Your baby's well-being is the priority, and finding the right approach may take some time and patience.

Similar Q&A

Understanding and Managing Excessive Crying in Newborns: Tips for Parents

Hello, doctor. My baby was just born not long ago, and is under one month old. For some unknown reason, he cries frequently, almost every half hour. His diaper has been changed, and he has been fed. Each feeding lasts about an hour, but he only consumes around 30 to 40 ml. Even a...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
Common reasons for a baby under one month old to cry continuously include: 1. Hunger, wet diaper, or needing comfort; 2. Fever; 3. Oral ulcers or severe thrush; 4. Foreign objects in the eyes, ears, or nose; 5. Inguinal hernia; 6. Severe diaper rash; 7. Vaccine side effects; 8. I...

Understanding Infant Feeding Issues: Crying and Discomfort During Nursing

Hello Dr. Hsiao, my baby is currently 36 days old. Recently, he often cries while drinking milk, kicks his legs wildly, and seems to be straining his whole body, which makes me feel that he is uncomfortable. I wonder why this is happening. I suspect it might be a gas issue, but I...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
It may be due to a heightened sensitivity of the gastrocolic reflex in newborns (the reflex that stimulates intestinal peristalsis when food enters the stomach). Some infants may have a higher sensitivity, but this is not always the case. It is recommended to consult a pediatrici...

Understanding Infant Feeding Issues: Tips for Managing Milk Refusal and Colic

Hello Dr. Hong, My baby is now over three months old. Recently, the interval between feedings has extended from three hours to four hours, so I adjusted her milk intake from 120cc to 150cc. However, in the past few days, she often seems uninterested in feeding when it's tim...

Dr. Hong Shaohui reply Pediatrics
Response: (1) Infants have a limited stomach capacity, so it is advisable to avoid giving water and glucose water between feedings to allow for more milk intake. Glucose water is not necessary; if the baby sweats a lot or loses more fluids in an air-conditioned environment, you c...

Addressing Common Infant Behavior Issues: Feeding, Sleep, and Development

Dr. Hsiao: I have a question about my four-month-old baby. When I place him on his stomach, he is unable to lift his head to a 45-degree angle and ends up with his face flat on the ground. Is this a concern? Additionally, he loves sucking on his fingers but doesn't drink muc...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
When a baby discovers that crying leads to "feedback," they will naturally continue to do so, resulting in a negative cycle that is not ideal. It is advisable to observe from a distance first. If there are no signs of physical discomfort, you can continue to monitor the...