Infant vomiting can be scary to witness. Vomiting is different from an infant simply spitting up. Vomiting is usually much larger in volume than spit up and vomiting will normally repeat until the stomach empties. Some common conditions can cause this terrifying problem and they may be the result of illness, allergies, or even a congenital medical condition.
Gastroenteritis
According to the National Library of Medicine, gastroenteritis is an infection of the digestive tract. A virus that invades the infant's body can cause cases of gastroenteritis. The National Library of Medicine reports it is similar to the stomach flu in adults. The National Library of Medicine reports that gastroenteritis can cause some symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The National Library of Medicine also reports that it can also lead to other symptoms, such as poor feeding, muscle pain and leakage of stool. An infant with this particular illness may have cold clammy skin, or sweat profusely and need a frequent change of clothing. If you witness these symptoms, call your infant's physician immediately.
Lactose Intolerance
According to the National Library of Medicine, lactose intolerance occurs when there is not enough of an enzyme called lactase in the small intestine. The National Library of Medicine reports that lactose intolerance can occur in premature infants, whose systems are not fully developed. As a result, infants who suffer from lactose intolerance can experience vomiting because their bodies are unable to process and break down the lactose in milk. The National Library of Medicine reports that some common symptoms of this condition consist of bloating in the abdominal area, diarrhea, cramping, foul smelling stools, nausea, malnutrition, and slow weight gain. This condition can affect how your infant will develop, and you should notify your infant's physician immediately if you suspect this condition.
Pyloric Stenosis
Pyloric stenosis is a restriction at the end of the stomach, called the pylorus, which can cause a backup of food in the stomach. According to the National Library of Medicine, an infant with this condition will vomit forcefully after every feeding. Pyloric stenosis sometimes causes projectile vomiting and can be quite frightening for the caregiver to experience. According to Family Doctor, pyloric stenosis can also cause conditions like dehydration or salt and fluid imbalance. This can be life threatening and can lead to hospitalization in young infants. If you witness vomiting that concerns you, immediately report it to your infant's pediatrician.
