The phenomenon of infants spitting up is quite common, typically attributed to two main causes: first, as a symptom of systemic disease or gastrointestinal issues; second, the unique anatomical structure of an infant’s gastrointestinal tract makes them more prone to spitting up. Especially the latter is the more common reason.
An infant’s stomach structure is different from that of an adult; it is positioned relatively horizontally, and the esophageal sphincter (the entrance to the stomach) is quite loose. This means that when food enters an infant’s stomach, the sphincter cannot effectively close to prevent food from flowing back into the esophagus, making it easier for the milk to reflux into the esophagus. At the same time, infants often have uncoordinated sucking motions and tend to swallow air; when they burp or move around, the swallowed air and milk may be expelled together. If this occurs occasionally and the infant is in good spirits, there is generally no need for excessive worry. However, if it happens frequently, with vomiting accompanying every feeding, attention should be given to whether the infant has a fever, changes in stool, or alterations in mental state, as this may signal gastrointestinal issues or other systemic diseases, and it is advisable to seek medical examination promptly.
Parents can take the following measures in response to an infant spitting up:
If an infant suddenly spits up while lying flat, quickly turn their face to the side to prevent the expelled material from flowing back into the throat and windpipe. Use a clean handkerchief or towel to wipe away the milk from the mouth and throat, ensuring the airway is clear.
If the infant is found to be experiencing difficulty breathing or has a bluish discoloration, it indicates that the expelled material may have entered the windpipe; immediately place the infant face down across an adult’s thighs or on a hard surface, and give several gentle pats on the back to help them cough out the obstruction.
If the above methods do not work, try gently squeezing the soles of the infant’s feet to induce pain, encouraging the infant to breathe due to the discomfort, ensuring an adequate oxygen supply, which is crucial in emergency situations.
It is noteworthy that spitting up in newborns is a normal phenomenon, largely caused by the immaturity of their stomach and throat. As the baby grows, starting around two weeks after birth, the spitting up phenomenon typically peaks around two months of age and then gradually decreases, nearly ceasing by six months. To reduce spitting up, after feeding, the baby should be held upright and gently patted on the back to facilitate burping and expel excess air. Even if the baby does not burp, they can be held upright for about half an hour before being placed on their side and then slowly transitioned to lying flat. This can effectively reduce spitting up and ensure the baby’s safety.
