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What causes a 15-day-old infant's stomach to be hard, and what should be done?

Nov 05, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, "belly" refers to the abdomen. A 15-day-old infant having a hard abdomen may be related to improper feeding, immature intestinal function, constipation, lactose intolerance, intestinal obstruction, or other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Parents are advised to closely monitor their baby's health and ensure balanced nutrition, which may help alleviate symptoms.

Under normal circumstances, the term "belly" refers to the abdomen. A hard abdomen in a 15-day-old infant may be related to improper feeding, immature intestinal function, constipation, lactose intolerance, intestinal obstruction, or other factors. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended for symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Improper Feeding

Infants may swallow excessive air during breastfeeding due to rapid sucking or incorrect feeding posture, leading to increased gas in the gastrointestinal tract and a hard-feeling abdomen. It is recommended to adjust the feeding position, ensuring the baby takes both the nipple and most of the areola into the mouth to avoid swallowing too much air.

2. Immature Intestinal Function

An infant’s intestinal system has not yet fully matured, resulting in weaker digestion and absorption of food. This can easily lead to gas accumulation or constipation, causing the abdomen to feel firm. Gently massaging the infant’s abdomen is recommended to promote intestinal motility and gas expulsion.

3. Constipation

Incoordination of intestinal motility or insufficient fluid intake may lead to constipation, causing hardened stool to accumulate in the large intestine, making it difficult to pass and resulting in tense abdominal muscles and a hard abdominal texture. Symptoms may include difficulty defecating, crying, and restlessness. Under medical guidance, medications such as麻仁润肠丸 (Maren Runchang Pills), 通便灵胶囊 (Tongbianling Capsules), or 新复方芦荟胶囊 (New Compound Aloe Capsules) may be used to relieve symptoms.

4. Lactose Intolerance

Lactase deficiency leads to lactose intolerance, meaning the infant has low lactase activity and cannot adequately break down lactose in breast milk or formula. Undigested lactose enters the colon, where it is fermented by bacteria, producing large amounts of gas and causing bloating. Additional symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and irritability. Under medical supervision, medications such as乳酸菌素片 (Lactobacillus Tablets), 双歧杆菌三联活菌胶囊 (Bifidobacterium Triformis Live Capsules), or 枯草杆菌二联活菌颗粒 (Bacillus Subtilis and Enterococcus Faecalis Live Granules) may help alleviate symptoms.

5. Intestinal Obstruction

Intestinal adhesions after surgery or colorectal tumors may cause intestinal obstruction, preventing food residue and feces from passing normally. This can result in trapped gas and fluids in the intestines, leading to abdominal distension. Severe symptoms may include vomiting, abdominal pain, and cessation of bowel movements. Treatment may involve medications such as cisapride tablets, racemic hyoscine hydrobromide injection, or otilonium bromide tablets, as prescribed by a physician.

Parents are advised to closely monitor their infant’s health, maintain balanced feeding practices, and seek timely medical care to help alleviate symptoms.

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