Symptoms and Relief Methods for Neonatal Intestinal Gas Distension
Disease description:
My baby's belly is bloated, and it seems like intestinal gas might be the issue. Doctor, what are the symptoms and relief methods for intestinal gas in newborns?
Newborn intestinal gas often presents with abdominal distension. The baby may appear restless, cry frequently, especially after feeding. Symptoms may include leg pushing, facial flushing, and even arching of the back and hiccupping. These symptoms may be caused by swallowing excessive air, an immature digestive system, or allergies to certain foods.
Methods to relieve newborn intestinal gas include:
1. Burping: After feeding, gently lift the baby into an upright position and lightly pat the back to help release air from the stomach.
2. Abdominal massage: Gently massage the baby's abdomen in a clockwise direction using the palm of your hand, which helps move gas through the intestines and relieve discomfort.
3. Leg exercises: Gently move the baby's legs in a "bicycle-pedaling" motion to stimulate intestinal motility and alleviate gas buildup.
4. Adjust feeding position: Try different feeding positions, such as slightly elevating the baby's head during feeding, to reduce air swallowing.
5. Use of anti-gas drops: Under a doctor's guidance, you may try using infant-specific anti-gas products.
6. Monitor the mother's diet: If breastfeeding, the mother should pay attention to her diet and avoid foods that may cause gas in the baby, such as beans, spicy foods, etc.
If the baby's intestinal gas does not improve or is accompanied by other abnormal symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to rule out other underlying conditions.