Why does a 1.5-year-old baby cry and become fussy during sleep at night?

Dec 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

Crying and fussiness during sleep at night in a one-and-a-half-year-old child are mainly caused by factors such as developmental stages, separation anxiety, improper diet, vitamin D deficiency, and colic. At this stage, the child is experiencing rapid growth and development, which may lead to nighttime discomfort and crying due to growth-related pain or teething. Parents can provide appropriate comfort to the child, such as gently massaging the legs.

Generally, nighttime crying in 18-month-old babies is mainly caused by factors such as developmental stages, separation anxiety, improper diet, vitamin D deficiency, and intestinal colic. If symptoms persist, prompt medical attention is advised. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Developmental Stage

At 18 months old, babies are in a rapid growth and development phase. They may experience nighttime discomfort and crying due to growth-related pain or teething. Parents can provide appropriate comfort, such as gently massaging the baby's legs, to help relieve the discomfort.

2. Separation Anxiety

At this age, babies begin to develop awareness of separation from their parents and may wake up at night and cry due to fear or anxiety. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, such as bathing, reading, or singing, can help babies feel more secure.

3. Improper Diet

Babies may cry at night due to hunger if they haven't eaten enough at dinner, or they may experience discomfort such as bloating or abdominal pain caused by indigestion from overeating or consuming inappropriate foods. Dinner should be appropriately portioned to avoid both overeating and going to bed hungry.

4. Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency may result from insufficient sun exposure, gastrointestinal diseases, or inadequate dietary intake. A lack of vitamin D can affect calcium absorption and utilization, leading to increased nervous system excitability. Babies may experience night terrors, nighttime crying, and physical symptoms such as a square-shaped skull or pigeon chest. It is recommended to follow medical advice regarding the use of medications such as vitamin A and D drops, enalapril maleate and folic acid tablets, and multivitamin B tablets for treatment.

5. Intestinal Colic

Intestinal colic is caused by strong contractions of the intestinal smooth muscle or gas accumulation in the gut. Although more common in infants under 3 months, 18-month-old babies can also experience it, often presenting with symptoms such as abdominal pain and persistent crying. Treatment may involve medications such as racemic hyoscyamine tablets, lactulose oral solution, and Corydalis yanhusuo capsules, as directed by a physician.

Establishing a pre-sleep routine, such as bathing, putting on pajamas, and reading stories, can help signal to the baby that it is time to sleep.

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