Many new parents find that their newborns occasionally have abdominal bloating and gas, accompanied by gurgling sounds, which can be worrying. To effectively alleviate this situation, the first step is to identify the underlying causes. Here are several common factors summarized based on insights from newborn care specialists:
The first factor involves the baby’s physical structure. Since the infant’s abdominal muscles are not fully developed, the abdomen may appear particularly prominent when picked up, combined with the naturally round body shape, resulting in the visual appearance of a swollen abdomen.
Secondly, infants are more prone to gas issues than adults. Rapid feeding, improper bottle use, or excessive air intake due to intense crying can introduce excess gas. Additionally, gas produced during the digestion of food is also a significant factor. As long as the baby’s eating, excretion are normal, no vomiting, soft abdomen, energetic and steady weight gain, this type of functional gas usually does not require special treatment, but focuses on prevention.
Furthermore, issues with the digestive system should not be overlooked. Indigestion and constipation can lead to fecal accumulation in the intestines, promoting the growth of gas-producing bacteria; conditions like cow’s milk protein allergy, lactose intolerance, or enteritis can also disrupt the digestion and absorption processes, leading to gas buildup.
Moreover, certain pathological conditions such as organ enlargement or tumors can also cause abdominal distention. These diseases include hepatosplenomegaly, cirrhosis, which may compress the abdominal space due to abnormal organ or tissue growth.
Lastly, intestinal obstruction is another potential cause. Especially in infants and young children, total or partial intestinal blockage can occur for various reasons, such as congenital megacolon, where the lower end of the intestine fails to relax normally, resulting in dilation of the upper intestine. These children may exhibit significant abdominal distention, along with delayed bowel movements or constipation.
By understanding these reasons, parents can communicate more effectively with doctors, expedite diagnosis, and implement targeted treatments. With appropriate treatment from professional medical institutions, most infants’ gas issues can be effectively alleviated, allowing the baby to recover comfort and no longer suffer from abdominal discomfort.
