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What causes a baby to spit up milk?

May 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Infant spitting up milk may be caused by an immature digestive system, overfeeding, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), infections, lactose intolerance, or other reasons. When caring for your baby, ensure proper feeding practices, avoid overfeeding, and pay attention to the baby's digestion and bowel movements. If you notice any discomfort or abnormal symptoms in the child, it is recommended to promptly adjust feeding habits to maintain the child's health.

Under normal circumstances, infant spitting up may be caused by an immature digestive system, overfeeding, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), infections, lactose intolerance, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Immature Digestive System

The sphincter muscle at the junction between the infant's stomach and esophagus has not fully developed, making it easier for stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus and spill out. This may result in occasional milk regurgitation, mild crying, or discomfort. Parents should feed the baby smaller amounts more frequently, ensure the baby is held in an upright position during feeding, and keep the baby upright for some time after feeding.

2. Overfeeding

Providing too much milk, exceeding the baby’s stomach capacity, can cause milk to overflow. This typically occurs immediately after or shortly following feeding, and may be accompanied by bloating and burping. Parents should adjust the feeding volume by reducing the amount per feeding and increasing feeding frequency. Gently patting the infant’s back after feeding helps expel air from the stomach.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Stomach acid and undigested food flow back from the stomach into the esophagus, causing esophageal inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms include frequent spitting up, especially when lying down or changing body position, and may also involve refusal to eat, weight loss, coughing, and rapid breathing. Treatment should follow medical advice using medications such as Sanjiu Weitai Granules, Siwei Piyi Shu Granules, or Weili Kang Granules.

4. Gastrointestinal Infection (Gastroenteritis)

Gastroenteritis leads to gastrointestinal dysfunction. Symptoms include spitting up, possibly with foul-smelling vomit, as well as fever, diarrhea, cough, and runny nose. Treatment should follow medical advice using medications such as Amoxicillin Granules, Roxithromycin Granules, or Fosfomycin Calcium Granules.

5. Lactose Intolerance

The infant lacks sufficient lactase enzyme to digest lactose in milk, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort. Symptoms include spitting up, usually accompanied by diarrhea and bloating, and may also include rashes or breathing difficulties. Treatment should follow medical advice using medications such as Bifid Triple Vital Powder, Bacillus Subtilis Dual Probiotic Granules, or Montmorillonite Powder.

When caring for infants, ensure proper feeding practices, avoid overfeeding, and monitor the child's digestion and bowel movements. If any discomfort or abnormal symptoms are observed, promptly adjust feeding habits, observe the infant’s response, and take appropriate measures to maintain the child’s health.

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