Should I Be Concerned if My Baby Is Spitting Up?

When a baby cannot keep anything down or very little, there can be cause for concern. However, it's important to understand the difference between normal and concerning spitting up. Spitting up a small amount, like a little formula or breast milk, is usually not a problem, especially if it happens with a burp. However, if the baby is bringing up the entire feeding or close to the entire feeding, this is a bad sign. Other symptoms that should raise alert include the baby being unable to keep down any food, and continuous forceful spitting up.

Signs of Normal Spitting Up

Sometimes, babies will spit up even after several hours of feeding and even after being burped. This is completely normal. However, you should be concerned if the baby is throwing up a lot or if there is any colour change. If the spit-up is being propelled a good distance from the baby, it is a sign of concern. In such cases, it is best to contact your midwife, nurse, or pediatrician immediately.

Signs of Serious Concern

If the spitting up is forceful, constant, and causing the baby pain, these are all signs that should prompt immediate attention. It is crucial to consider consulting a pediatrician if you are ever concerned. The pediatrician can provide reassurance and help ease your mind.

Medical Conditions Linked to Spitting Up

While most spitting up is normal, certain medical conditions or abnormal spitting up can be indicative of a more serious issue. If the spit-up is projectile, meaning it travels a good distance and not just a small amount, this could indicate pyloric stenosis. Pyloric stenosis is a condition where the pylorus, the sphincter at the base of the stomach, is congenitally narrowed, leading to difficulty in passing food into the small intestine. If this condition is suspected, the baby will require surgery to correct the problem.

Additionally, if the spit-up contains blood, it can be red like a cut or resemble coffee grounds. Blood in the spit-up or vomit is a warning sign that there is bleeding in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is essential to seek medical attention if you notice any blood in the baby's spit-up.

Conclusion

It is important to differentiate between normal and concerning spitting up in infants. While a small amount of spit-up after a feeding is common and nothing to worry about, symptoms such as forceful spitting up, blood in the spit-up, or projectile vomiting should be taken seriously. If you are ever unsure, always consult with a pediatrician for guidance.

Remember, any prolonged instances where the baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight, or if you notice other concerning symptoms such as a fever, lethargy, discolored skin, or rigid abdomen, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.