Vomiting in 10-Month-Old Babies: Causes and Concerns

10-month-old baby vomiting?

Hello doctor, my baby is currently 10 months old and sometimes cries so hard that she vomits.
Occasionally, after eating, while playing, she suddenly vomits.
Is this because she is a low birth weight infant born at 37 weeks and has not fully developed? Why does she vomit? Does she need to undergo any tests? My baby is very active and does not have a fever, but lately, she has been having frequent bowel movements after eating solid foods.
At night, she wakes up crying and has trouble sleeping soundly.
How can I help her? Sometimes she hits her head with her hands and when sitting, she tends to lean back and fall over, which worries me about her hitting her head.
The caregiver often says she is very active and cannot sit still.
Could she be hyperactive? What tests should be done?

Joyce, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/10/10

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Infants have a relatively small stomach capacity, so it is possible for them to spit up milk after vigorous activities (such as crying or playing) shortly after feeding.
This is not necessarily related to being a low birth weight infant born at 37 weeks gestation.
However, if the infant consistently vomits after every meal, vomits green bile, shows poor weight gain, has an unusually distended abdomen, or exhibits low energy, a pediatric evaluation at the hospital is warranted.
By 10 months, an infant's brain has developed to a certain extent, and they may experience nightmares that disrupt their sleep.
If it is confirmed that the infant is not sick or hungry, soothing methods such as gentle music and light rocking can be employed.
Infants may display behaviors that adults find strange, but as long as there are no other obvious neurological abnormalities, these are often just normal developmental phases.
It is important for adults to be patient and provide guidance.
It is too early to label a 10-month-old infant as having "hyperactive tendencies," as they are naturally beginning to explore the world around them.

Reply Date: 2013/10/10

More Info

Understanding vomiting in a 10-month-old baby can be quite concerning for parents, especially when it occurs during play or after crying. In your case, it seems that your baby occasionally vomits after being upset or after eating, which can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it's important to note that vomiting in infants can be relatively common and is often not a cause for alarm. Babies have small stomachs, and when they are overfed or become too active shortly after eating, they may vomit. This is particularly true if they are crying or moving around vigorously, as the increased abdominal pressure can lead to the expulsion of stomach contents. In your situation, since your baby was born at 37 weeks and is a low birth weight infant, it is possible that their digestive system is still maturing. However, this does not necessarily mean that the vomiting is directly related to their prematurity.

If your baby is otherwise active, alert, and not showing signs of distress such as fever, dehydration, or poor weight gain, the vomiting may not be a significant concern. However, if the vomiting becomes frequent, is accompanied by green bile, or if your baby shows signs of discomfort, it would be wise to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation. They may recommend tests to rule out any underlying issues, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other gastrointestinal problems.

Regarding your concerns about your baby's sleep disturbances and hyperactivity, it is common for infants to experience sleep disruptions, especially around this age. Babies may wake up crying due to nightmares or discomfort, and it is essential to provide a calming environment. Gentle rocking, soft music, or a comforting presence can help soothe your baby back to sleep.
As for your observation of your baby hitting their head or falling backward while sitting, this behavior can be typical for infants as they explore their environment. Babies are naturally curious and may engage in activities that seem risky, but they are also developing their motor skills. While it is essential to supervise them to prevent injuries, this behavior alone does not indicate hyperactivity or a disorder.
Hyperactivity, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is typically not diagnosed until a child is older, as many infants exhibit high energy levels and curiosity without any underlying issues. If you have concerns about your baby's activity level or behavior, it may be helpful to discuss these with your pediatrician, who can provide guidance and reassurance.

In summary, occasional vomiting in a 10-month-old can be normal, especially in the context of crying or active play. Monitoring your baby's overall health, growth, and behavior is crucial. If any concerning symptoms arise, or if you feel uncertain, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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