What causes frequent night awakenings in a 14-month-old baby?
Feb 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
A 14-month-old baby frequently waking up at night may be due to physiological or pathological factors. Calcium deficiency can increase the baby's nervous excitability, leading to frequent night awakenings accompanied by excessive sweating. Whether the baby has other symptoms such as spitting up, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea is also important, as indigestion can cause repeated night wakings. Additionally, respiratory infections causing breathing difficulties can lead to restless sleep and frequent nighttime awakenings.
A 14-month-old baby frequently waking up at night may be due to either physiological or pathological factors, such as calcium deficiency, indigestion, or respiratory tract infections.
I. Physiological Factors
If the environment is too noisy, too hot, or too cold, the baby may feel uncomfortable and thus experience frequent nighttime awakenings. Parents should promptly adjust the sleep environment to ensure it is quiet and that indoor temperature and humidity are comfortable.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Calcium Deficiency
Calcium deficiency may increase the baby's nervous system excitability, leading to frequent night wakings and excessive sweating. Under a doctor's guidance, parents can supplement the baby's diet with calcium and vitamin D. Additionally, taking the baby outdoors for appropriate activities can help promote calcium absorption.
2. Indigestion
Parents should closely monitor whether the baby shows other symptoms such as spitting up milk, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Indigestion can also cause repeated nighttime awakenings. With medical advice, parents may gently massage the baby's abdomen in a clockwise direction around the navel or apply appropriate warmth to relieve discomfort.
3. Respiratory Tract Infection
Breathing difficulties caused by respiratory infections can lead to restless sleep and frequent night wakings. As directed by a physician, antiviral traditional Chinese medicines may be administered, such as Isatis Root Granules, Pudilan Oral Liquid, or Xiao'er Ganmao Ling Granules.
