Umbilical Issues and Digestive Concerns in Infants

Q: Umbilical Issues and Digestive Concerns in Infants

Hello： 1. Infants who consume partially hydrolyzed formula (such as Enfamil HA1) may have stools that are more odorous. However, if the child is growing normally, there is no need to change the formula solely due to the odor of the stools. 2. Bloating in t

Umbilical issues

Hello Dr.
Pei: Thank you for your response to my previous question.
I have a few more questions to ask you.
Last time, you mentioned that the foul smell of a child's stool is due to excessive protein.
Is this directly related to the formula milk? Should I consider changing the formula? His stomach tends to bloat; is this also related to the formula? He is almost three months old, but his umbilical cord area is still protruding.
Could this cause him to have a bloated stomach? Is it normal for the umbilical cord to protrude? Will it go down as he gets older? He sleeps with his mouth open; what could be the reason for this? Additionally, his mouth often feels sticky.
Is this due to insufficient water intake or other factors? Should I take him to see a doctor for an examination? Thank you for your help.

Zeng Tai Tai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/01/18

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello:
1.
Infants who consume partially hydrolyzed formula (such as Enfamil HA1) may have stools that are more odorous.
However, if the child is growing normally, there is no need to change the formula solely due to the odor of the stools.

2.
Bloating in the stomach is mostly unrelated to the formula and is often associated with crying and swallowing air.
If there is inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, digestion and absorption may be impaired, leading to increased bloating.

3.
If the umbilical cord is still protruding at three months, the degree of protrusion should be assessed to determine if it is severe enough to pose a risk of intestinal obstruction or ischemia.
Intestinal obstruction can indeed cause bloating, so it is important to monitor for clinical signs such as vomiting (especially if bile is present).
If the protrusion is mild, it usually resolves by the age of one.
However, it is best to have a pediatrician examine the child for peace of mind.

Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Pei Ren-Sheng

Reply Date: 2007/01/18

More Info

When it comes to understanding umbilical issues and digestive concerns in infants, it's important to address several aspects of your questions regarding your three-month-old baby.
Firstly, regarding the odor of your baby's stool, it is indeed possible that the type of formula being used can influence the smell. Formula-fed infants often have different stool characteristics compared to breastfed infants. If the formula contains a high amount of protein, it can lead to stronger-smelling stools. If you notice that the odor is particularly foul or if there are other concerning symptoms such as diarrhea or blood in the stool, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician whether a change in formula is necessary.
As for the issue of gas and bloating, this can also be related to the formula. Some infants may have difficulty digesting certain components of their formula, which can lead to gas and discomfort. If your baby seems to be particularly gassy or uncomfortable after feedings, you might want to consult your pediatrician about trying a different formula, possibly one that is designed for sensitive stomachs or is lactose-free.

Regarding the umbilical protrusion, it is common for infants to have an umbilical hernia, which is when a small portion of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal wall at the site of the umbilical cord. This condition is usually harmless and often resolves on its own as the child grows and the abdominal muscles strengthen. However, if the protrusion becomes larger, painful, or if you notice any changes in your baby's behavior, it is essential to seek medical advice.
The fact that your baby sleeps with their mouth open can be attributed to several factors. It could be due to nasal congestion, which is common in infants, or simply a natural sleeping position. If you are concerned about this or if it seems to be affecting their breathing, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional.

The sticky saliva you mentioned could be due to a variety of reasons, including dehydration or simply the normal drooling that occurs as infants begin to explore their oral skills. Ensuring that your baby is adequately hydrated is important, but if the stickiness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, a check-up with the pediatrician would be advisable.

In summary, while many of the concerns you have raised are common in infants, it is always best to consult with a pediatrician for personalized advice and to ensure that your baby is developing healthily. Regular check-ups can help monitor your baby's growth and address any concerns you may have regarding their digestive health and umbilical issues.

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