Vomiting in Infants: Causes and Solutions for Parents

Vomiting after eating?

Hello, doctor.
My daughter just turned eight months old.
She started introducing solid foods around five months, and aside from fruits, she has been eating well.
Recently, I'm not sure if it's due to a cold and the medication (she has a cough, a small amount of clear, slightly sticky nasal discharge, and diarrhea), but she has lost interest in her favorite rice porridge.
After taking a couple of bites, she has a gag reflex and sometimes vomits.
I'm wondering if this unpleasant feeling is affecting her interest in solid foods (I have never forced her to eat).

Additionally, since she started eating fruits, she has a gag reflex with any fruit she doesn't like, and there have been a few instances where she actually vomited.
She can accept pears, watermelon, and bananas, but she rejects fruits like apples and grapes.
As for medication, she cannot tolerate it at all; even a tiny bit will make her vomit.
Therefore, I have been mixing the medication with breast milk or rice porridge.
She does not reject it when it's mixed with breast milk, but I'm unsure about the rice porridge since she currently does not want to eat it.
I would like to ask the doctor if this situation is normal and what I can do to improve it.
I'm very concerned that if she only consumes breast milk, it may not be sufficient.
Thank you.

tina, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/06/22

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Dear Tina,
Hello! After a child catches a cold, they may experience throat inflammation and pain, which can trigger a gag reflex after eating just a few bites.
Additionally, infants may be picky eaters, rejecting certain foods and only consuming others.
These behaviors are normal.

By the time they reach eight months, infants should not rely solely on breast milk; they need complementary foods to ensure adequate nutrition.

For gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), the following recommendations are suggested:
1.
Breastfeeding: Breast milk is easier to digest and absorb, and there is less risk of overfeeding (as the baby will stop sucking when full).
2.
Offer small, frequent meals.
3.
After feeding, keep the baby in a position with their head elevated and feet lower for thirty minutes before lying them flat.
4.
After four months, introduce thickened formula (with added complementary foods).
5.
Consider medications prescribed by a physician to enhance gastrointestinal motility.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng
Director of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2010/06/22

More Info

Vomiting in infants can be a concerning issue for parents, especially when it affects their ability to eat and gain proper nutrition. In your case, your eight-month-old daughter has recently experienced vomiting, which may be linked to her current illness, including a cough, nasal congestion, and diarrhea. Understanding the causes of vomiting in infants and how to address them is crucial for ensuring your child's health and well-being.

Causes of Vomiting in Infants
1. Illness: As you've noted, your daughter is experiencing symptoms of a cold, which can lead to vomiting. Respiratory infections can cause nausea and vomiting due to increased mucus production and post-nasal drip, which irritates the stomach.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Diarrhea and vomiting often go hand in hand. If your daughter has an upset stomach or gastrointestinal infection, it could lead to vomiting as her body tries to rid itself of irritants.

3. Food Aversion: Infants can develop aversions to certain foods, especially if they associate them with discomfort. If your daughter has had a negative experience with a particular food, such as vomiting after eating it, she may refuse to eat it again.

4. Medication Reactions: Some medications can cause nausea and vomiting as side effects. If your daughter is taking medication for her cold, it might be contributing to her vomiting.

5. Overfeeding or Rapid Feeding: Infants have small stomachs, and if they are fed too quickly or too much, they may vomit as a response.

Solutions and Strategies for Parents
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your daughter's overall condition. If her vomiting persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (like high fever, dehydration, or blood in vomit), consult your pediatrician immediately.

2. Hydration: Ensure that your daughter stays hydrated, especially if she is experiencing diarrhea. Offer small amounts of breast milk or formula frequently. If she refuses solid foods, focus on keeping her hydrated.

3. Introduce Foods Gradually: Since your daughter has shown aversions to certain foods, consider reintroducing them slowly and in small amounts. You can try mixing them with foods she enjoys, like bananas or rice cereal, to make them more palatable.

4. Avoid Force-Feeding: It's essential not to force her to eat if she is not interested. This can create negative associations with food. Instead, offer a variety of foods and allow her to explore them at her own pace.

5. Medication Administration: If she is refusing medication, try mixing it with breast milk or a small amount of food she likes, as you mentioned. However, consult your pediatrician to ensure this method is safe and effective.

6. Consult a Pediatrician: If your daughter's vomiting continues or if you have concerns about her nutritional intake, it's essential to consult a pediatrician. They can assess her condition, provide guidance on dietary changes, and determine if further evaluation is necessary.

7. Create a Calm Eating Environment: Ensure that mealtimes are relaxed and stress-free. Avoid distractions and allow her to eat at her own pace. This can help her feel more comfortable with food.

Conclusion
It's normal for infants to experience vomiting, especially during illness or when adjusting to new foods. However, it's crucial to monitor her symptoms and ensure she remains hydrated and nourished. By taking a gentle approach to feeding and consulting with your pediatrician, you can help your daughter navigate this challenging phase. Remember, your concern for her well-being is a vital part of her development, and with time, she will likely regain her appetite and interest in food.

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