children s health issues
Feeding Problems
Spitting Up
Spitting up (burping up) is the effortless return of swallowed formula or breast milk through the mouth or nose after feeding. This is normal as long as it is not excessive. Almost all infants spit up, because infants cannot sit upright during and after feedings. Also, the valve (sphincter) that separates the esophagus and stomach is immature and does not keep all of the stomach's contents in place. Spitting up gets worse when an infant eats too fast or swallows air. Spitting up usually stops between the ages of 7 months and 12 months. Spitting up can be reduced by Feeding infants before they get very hungry Burping them every 4 to 5 minutes while feeding Placing them in an upright position during and after feeding Making certain the bottle nipple lets out only a few drops with pressure or when the bottle is upside down Spitting up that seems to cause an infant discomfort, interferes with feeding and growth, or persists into early childhood is called Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children and may require medical attention. If the material that is spit up is green (indicating bile) or bloody or causes any coughing or choking, medical attention is needed immediately. 