How can I prevent reflux in an 18 days old baby?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My daughter is 18 days old. Yesterday she vomited out milk three times in a day. Also sometimes she coughs for four to five seconds several minutes after the feed. She arches her back and folds her leg when I lay her on the bed. She is more comfortable lying on my chest and tummy all the time. She is exclusively on breastfeeding. Tell me how to prevent reflux. Should I make her sleep on sides as that way she is more comfortable?
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
This usually happens due to inadequate burping after the feed. After every feed, you should keep baby upright, at least for 15 to 20 minutes. Make sure baby is latching to the breast properly as improper latching leads to air swallowing, which can lead to gas or colic pain, and baby gets uncomfortable. It is good, keep baby exclusively breastfeed. Sleeping on inside is not recommended as it can lead to aspiration. Feeding gap should be maintained as much as possible, two hours so that you get time to rest, and milk secretion improves.
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor,
So should I make her sleep on back?
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Yes, please with the head being slightly above from body (can use the small cotton role to support head).
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor for the reply,
I consulted a pediatrician today. The doctor said my baby might be suffering from reflux. Her cough has increased after every feed, and sometimes while sleeping also. She has trouble sleeping on back, and makes hoarse voices. Is it something serious? The doctor prescribed junior Lansoprazole and Domstal for five days.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
The doctor might be right, but it can be a physiological reflux. Milk scan is diagnostic for reflux and is ideally recommended after six months or so if symptoms persist. Continue what I have suggested and start taking medications suggested by the doctor.
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor for the reply,
Weight gain is good, but the only problem is she coughs up after feeding. Milk regurgitation is rare and she coughs all of a sudden. She acts like she is about to vomit out.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I suggest the following:
- Keep baby in upright position always.
- Please give the baby vitamin D supplements.
- If weight is good, it is a good sign. It should resolve over a period of time.
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor for the reply,
For how many days should I give this medicine? Lansoprazole is a tablet. What is the best way to give this medicine to my baby?
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Lansoprazole is an oral disintegrating tablet. It should get absorbed once kept in oral cavity. But in your case,as baby is very small to keep tablet in mouth, I suggest you crush it, mix it in milk, and then give it.
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor for the reply,
The only problem that I am facing is that she is not sleeping on her back. Sleeping is the main issuetri. I tried everything but nothing helps.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Usually it take three to six month to develop good muscle tone. If she is taking feed well, this will help her gain weight. I understand keeping her upright all the time is difficult, but this way only regurgitation will stop.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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