Feeding problems in babies can wreck havoc with the parents. Though most problems are relatively insignificant, if allowed to persist they can have grave consequences. As the baby stays unsatisfied he can be fussy and have a disturbed sleeping pattern. Common feeding problems are:
Lactose intolerance: Lactose is a sugar found in milk products and this ailment is the ineptness of the body to digest lactose. The baby's immune system sees the milk protein as a dangerous antigen and puts up a fight against it, resulting in an allergic reaction which causes rashes vomiting, gas and loose stools. The remedy is to switch to soy milk or rice milk formula, also mothers who breast feed their babies, should regulate the use of dairy products.
Baby reflux or Gastro-esophageal reflux: Reflux happens when the contents of the stomach are pushed back up in the food pipe, throat and mouth. This condition is normal to some extent as the digestive system of the babies is immature and almost 50% of all healthy, blossoming babies experience reflux. However if the spiting up persists beyond the age of one or interferes with normal growth and feeding pattern of the baby, then its time you schedule an appointment with the pediatrician.
Pyloric Stenosis: Also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction pyloric stenosis is a fairly common condition; it causes the baby to vomit violently and leads to dehydration and fluid imbalances.
Most toddlers who develop pyloric stenosis are between the age of 2 weeks and 2 months. It is actually the narrowing of the lower part stomach via which the food travels to the small intestine. Symptoms include vomiting, fewer and smaller stools, lethargy, weight loss and dehydration. Pyloric stenosis can be corrected by a minor surgery.
Armed with this information, you can identify and manage the feeding problems much more confidently.
