A 6-and-a-half-month-old baby keeps tossing and turning at night.

Mar 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
A 6-and-a-half-month-old baby who frequently tosses and turns during sleep may be experiencing issues caused by unfavorable environment, hunger, allergies or food intolerance, indigestion, calcium deficiency, or other factors. Appropriate treatment should be selected based on the underlying cause. Additionally, infantile colic could also be a possible reason. If symptoms persist without improvement, timely medical consultation at a hospital is recommended.

A 6-and-a-half-month-old baby frequently tossing and turning during sleep at night may be due to various factors such as poor environment, hunger, allergies or food intolerance, indigestion, calcium deficiency, etc. Appropriate treatment should be selected based on the underlying cause. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Poor Environment

If the indoor temperature is too high or too low, or if the surrounding environment is excessively noisy, these unfavorable conditions may disturb the baby's sleep. Symptoms can generally be improved by adjusting the room temperature and ensuring the baby sleeps in a quiet and comfortable environment.

2. Hunger

Due to a faster metabolic rate during the day, feeding frequency should be appropriately increased. If the baby is not fed on time and in adequate amounts, it may lead to crying and restlessness. It is important to feed the baby promptly to prevent hunger-related discomfort.

3. Allergies or Food Intolerance

The baby may be allergic or intolerant to certain foods, causing indigestion or abdominal discomfort, which leads to crying. Parents should monitor the baby’s diet and observe whether symptoms correlate with specific foods. If necessary, potential allergenic foods can be eliminated from the diet, or allergy testing can be conducted under a doctor’s guidance.

4. Indigestion

Since the baby’s gastrointestinal system is still developing, overfeeding before bedtime may increase digestive burden and lead to indigestion. Gently massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction can help promote intestinal motility. Additionally, medications such as Bifid Triple Live Bacteria Powder, Chicken Gizzard Powder, or Jianwei Xiaoshi Oral Liquid may be used under medical supervision to regulate gut flora, enhance gastrointestinal motility, and alleviate symptoms.

5. Calcium Deficiency

Babies who are picky eaters may not consume sufficient nutrients, leading to calcium deficiency. This increases neuromuscular excitability and causes restlessness. It is recommended to supplement calcium under medical guidance using products such as Pediatric Calcium Carbonate D3 Granules, Calcium Gluconate Oral Solution, or Calcium Acetate Granules to improve symptoms.

In addition, infantile colic could also be a possible cause. If symptoms persist without improvement, timely medical evaluation is necessary. Relevant examinations should be completed to establish a clear diagnosis and determine an appropriate treatment plan.