#asktheexperts my baby is 5months old...he is on formula feed now..he vomits out after every feed during burping and also 30min-1hour after every feed since birth but now amount of vomitus has increased...what can be done?

Question

Accepted Answer

dear parent, you should make sure that you are not over feeding your baby. if baby is active, alert, passing urine more than 7 times in 24 hours, gaining adequate weight at least 500 grams per month then do not worry.

Accepted Answer

Frequent vomiting in a 5-month-old baby, especially after every feed, can be concerning. There are several possible reasons and steps you can take to address this issue:

### **Possible Causes of Frequent Vomiting:**

1. **Overfeeding**:
   - **Feeding Volume**: If the baby is being fed too much at one time, it might lead to vomiting. Ensure you’re following the recommended feeding amounts for their age.

2. **Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD)**:
   - **Reflux**: GERD is common in infants and can cause frequent vomiting. It occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus.

3. **Feeding Technique**:
   - **Burping**: Inadequate burping can lead to trapped air in the stomach, which can cause vomiting. Ensure you're burping your baby properly after each feed.

4. **Formula Intolerance**:
   - **Allergy or Sensitivity**: Your baby may have an intolerance or allergy to the formula. Symptoms can include vomiting, fussiness, or diarrhea.

5. **Infections**:
   - **Gastrointestinal Infections**: Viral or bacterial infections can cause vomiting and may be accompanied by other symptoms like fever or diarrhea.

6. **Medical Conditions**:
   - **Underlying Issues**: Certain medical conditions or anatomical issues can cause excessive vomiting.

### **Steps to Address Vomiting:**

1. **Adjust Feeding Practices**:
   - **Smaller, Frequent Feeds**: Try feeding smaller amounts more frequently instead of larger amounts at once.
   - **Proper Burping**: Ensure you’re burping your baby effectively. Hold your baby upright and gently pat or rub their back.

2. **Check Formula**:
   - **Formula Changes**: If you suspect a formula intolerance, consult your pediatrician about trying a different formula or one that’s specially designed for sensitive tummies.

3. **Keep Baby Upright**:
   - **Upright Position**: Hold your baby in an upright position during and after feeding to help reduce reflux.

4. **Monitor for Other Symptoms**:
   - **Watch for Signs**: Keep an eye out for additional symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or signs of dehydration.

5. **Consult a Pediatrician**:
   - **Professional Advice**: If the vomiting persists or worsens, consult your pediatrician. They may suggest diagnostic tests or offer specific treatments based on their evaluation.

### **When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention:**

- **Severe Vomiting**: If the vomiting is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms (e.g., blood in vomit, severe dehydration, high fever).
- **Weight Loss**: Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight adequately.
- **Dehydration**: Signs of dehydration such as fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, or unusual drowsiness.

### **Summary:**

Frequent vomiting in a 5-month-old baby can be caused by several factors, including overfeeding, reflux, formula intolerance, or infections. Adjusting feeding practices, monitoring symptoms, and consulting a pediatrician can help address and manage the issue effectively.