Seeking Insights on My 3-Week-Old's Health Issues
Location: UK, M0; No medications currently used. Non-smoker; no apparent congenital issues. Hello everyone, I'm reaching out to see if anyone can provide guidance based on their experiences with similar situations involving infants. My son, now three weeks old, was delivered via forceps after a prolonged gestation of 42 weeks and 3 days. Right from his first night, he had some vomiting episodes, but aside from that initial concern, he seemed to do well for the following days. However, on the sixth day, he vomited again, which led to his mother starting a course of antibiotics due to concerns about a possible infection (related to a tear). Throughout that week, he experienced significant vomiting—large quantities, some appearing yellow while most had a creamy texture. Despite completing the antibiotics, the vomiting has continued for over a week now, with frequency fluctuating between several times in a few hours and longer stretches of 20-40 hours without any vomiting. Currently, he is hospitalized as the blood tests suggested pyloric stenosis (notably low levels of acid and salt), but his ultrasound results did not confirm this condition. One issue we've noticed is that he struggles to lie flat without being sick, though the vomiting isn’t always immediate. He is being exclusively breastfed and has a mild tongue tie. A trial with prescribed infant Gaviscon did not prove beneficial; instead, it made his vomit thicker and more difficult for him to manage, leading to additional distress. Despite the alarming bloodwork, he has maintained a good feeding pattern (his mother has a swift let-down), is alert and sleeps well (always on us for comfort) and displays healthy coloring. Before episodes of vomiting, he arches his back a lot, and distress is apparent. We also notice bubbly saliva coming before he vomits. After vomiting, he usually seeks to feed or sleep, appearing quite hungry. In the hospital, he seems to be passing more gas and has experienced some diarrhea, with stools often being frothy and occasionally a greenish hue reminiscent of spinach. Our family has a background of IBS and various allergies (severe hay fever), but there’s no known lactose intolerance or dairy allergies present. His mother has yet to initiate an elimination diet. Could his symptoms indicate reflux or possible intolerances? Has anyone faced similar concerns, and what was the outcome? The medical team here seems uncertain at this point.
Answers (1)
2/1/2026, 11:20:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your three-week-old son's health, especially given the persistent vomiting and the uncertainties surrounding his condition. While hospitalization and medical monitoring are crucial, I can provide you with some insights and actions you can consider.
Key Points:
- Persistent Vomiting in Infants: Since your son has been experiencing significant vomiting, evaluating potential causes like gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) or intolerances is essential.
- Hospitalization: It’s good that he’s under medical supervision, particularly given the notable blood test results and his symptoms.
- Family History: Your family history of IBS and allergies could be relevant in evaluating potential food intolerances or sensitivities.
Explanation:
Vomiting in infants can stem from a range of issues, including gastroesophageal reflux, dietary sensitivities, or infections. While pyloric stenosis (the narrowing of the opening from the stomach to the small intestine) is a concern, the ultrasounds haven’t confirmed this, which is a positive sign. The behavior you describe, such as arching the back, seeking to feed again after vomiting, and the presence of bubbly saliva, can be related to reflux. It's also possible your son is experiencing some form of intolerance, particularly if there's a family history.
Next Steps:
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Continue Close Monitoring: Keep observing your son’s vomiting patterns, sucking behavior, and how he reacts after feeding. Document any changes or new symptoms, including refraction of discomfort during or after feeds.
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Discuss Dietary Considerations: Since he is exclusively breastfed, if the healthcare team hasn’t already, consider discussing whether your partner should follow an elimination diet to assess potential food sensitivities. Common allergens include dairy, soy, and eggs.
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Explore Reflux Management: Reflux is common in infants. Consider discussing other positions for feeding and keeping him upright for at least 30 minutes post-feed. You might also want to query the healthcare team about alternatives to Gaviscon or potential combinations of medications to assist with reflux that may not have been tried yet.
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Supportive Measures: Ensure he’s comfortable while feeding—this might include changing positions or using a gentle rocking motion after feeds. Avoid any immediate cushioning under his tummy to prevent pressure which can worsen reflux.
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Get Regular Updates from the Medical Team: Since you mentioned the medical staff seems uncertain, insist on regular updates regarding his condition and any changes in treatment. You have every right to ask for clarity about any procedures or further tests that may be needed.
Reassurance:
It’s understandable to feel anxious during this time, especially with conflicting information from medical professionals. Make sure to engage openly with them and voice your concerns. Given that he shows signs of alertness and good feeding behavior, there are positive aspects that could suggest a resolution to his issues with appropriate management. You’re doing a great job by actively seeking guidance and staying involved in his care.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification!
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