after feeding baby bring milk from nose what can I do

Question

Accepted Answer

When a baby brings milk up through their nose, it can be concerning but is usually not serious. This phenomenon, known as "nasal regurgitation," occurs because the pathways of the throat and nasal cavity are closely connected in infants. Here are some tips to manage and prevent this from happening:

### **Tips to Prevent Nasal Regurgitation**

1. **Feeding Position**
   - **Upright Position**: Hold your baby in an upright or slightly inclined position while feeding. This helps the milk flow down more easily and reduces the risk of it coming back up.
   - **Angle the Bottle**: If bottle-feeding, ensure the bottle is angled so that the nipple is always full of milk to prevent your baby from swallowing air.

2. **Pacing the Feeding**
   - **Frequent Burping**: Burp your baby frequently during and after feeding to release any trapped air that could cause regurgitation.
   - **Slow Down**: If using a bottle, consider using a slow-flow nipple to control the milk flow and give your baby more time to swallow.

3. **After Feeding Care**
   - **Keep Upright**: Hold your baby in an upright position for at least 20-30 minutes after feeding to allow the milk to settle.
   - **Gentle Handling**: Avoid vigorous play or sudden movements right after feeding, which can cause the milk to come back up.

4. **Assess Feeding Technique**
   - **Latching**: Ensure a good latch if breastfeeding. A proper latch can help reduce the amount of air your baby swallows.
   - **Bottle Nipple Size**: Ensure the bottle nipple is the appropriate size for your baby's age to prevent too fast or too slow a flow of milk.

### **When to Seek Medical Advice**

- **Frequent Occurrence**: If nasal regurgitation happens frequently, it might indicate a feeding issue or another underlying condition.
- **Weight Gain Concerns**: If your baby is not gaining weight as expected or seems to be in distress, consult your pediatrician.
- **Other Symptoms**: If you notice other symptoms like coughing, choking, breathing difficulties, or persistent fussiness, it's important to seek medical advice.

### **Conclusion**

While occasional nasal regurgitation can be normal, following these tips can help reduce its occurrence. If it happens frequently or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues and get personalized advice.