#asktheexpert Hello Doctor, my baby is 29 days old, he keep waking up even with small sounds. also, he keep making sounds like he is having body ache. are these two symptoms normal?

Question

Accepted Answer

It's common for a 29-day-old baby to exhibit behaviors like waking up with small sounds or making noises that might seem like they're in discomfort. Here’s an explanation for both symptoms:

1. Waking Up with Small Sounds:

At this age, babies are still adjusting to the outside world and their sleep cycle. Newborns spend a significant portion of their sleep in lighter stages, so they are more likely to wake up due to external sounds or even internal changes like movements or digestion. It's a normal developmental phase as their nervous system is still maturing, and they are more sensitive to their environment.

Why it happens: Newborns have shorter sleep cycles, and their sleep is often lighter, which makes them more sensitive to external noises.

What to do: If the baby is sleeping well overall and not excessively fussy when awake, this behavior should be temporary as their sleep patterns mature. Try to minimize loud noises in the environment and keep the baby in a calm, quiet space for naps.

2. Making Sounds Like Body Ache:

Newborns often make a variety of noises that can sound like discomfort, but these are usually normal and related to their developing systems. Sounds like grunting, groaning, or what you might perceive as signs of body ache can often be due to:

Gas or Digestion: Newborns are still learning how to digest food, and they often pass gas or experience mild discomfort as they adjust.

Muscle Development: Their muscles are still developing, and sometimes babies make sounds as they stretch or move their limbs.

Normal Reflexes: Babies also have reflexes that can cause them to move their arms or legs, sometimes leading to slight discomfort or jerking movements.

Why it happens: Your baby’s digestive system and muscle coordination are still maturing, and these noises are likely a result of that process. Sometimes, babies may also grunt or seem uncomfortable as they pass gas or stool.

What to do: If your baby isn’t excessively fussy or showing signs of pain (like arching their back, crying in distress, or having feeding difficulties), these sounds are likely normal. You can try gently massaging your baby's tummy or holding them in a more upright position during feeding to help alleviate any discomfort from gas.

When to be Concerned:

If your baby seems to be in constant discomfort or pain, or if you notice other signs like severe crying, refusal to feed, fever, or vomiting, it’s a good idea to check in with your pediatrician.

If the body ache noises are accompanied by significant changes in feeding, sleeping, or behavior, consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.

Conclusion:

Both of these behaviors—waking up at small sounds and making sounds of discomfort—are generally normal in a 29-day-old baby and are part of the adjustment process to the outside world. However, keep monitoring your baby's overall comfort, feeding, and growth, and consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns or if the symptoms persist or worsen.