Reflux And Premature Babies
Reflux occurs quite frequently in premature babies due to poor muscle tone
, causing them to vomit milk after feeding. Often theyll arch their back because acid from the stomach is irritating the feeding tube (oesophagus). Reflux can cause babies to become restless, tearful and fail to gain weight, in some cases it can cause your baby to lose weight.
A baby can have reflux without being sick, they may arch their back, scream, cry and refuse to feed. Or they might feed frequently, in small amounts, since this is one way of lessening the irritation being created by the acid. You may also notice a strong vinegary smell on your babys breath.
Treatment will depend on the severity of the reflux and how much trouble it is causing your baby. Mild reflux will gradually improve as your baby grows and moves onto more solid food during weaning. Until this happens you can make your baby more comfortable by feeding them smaller amounts of milk more frequently and holding your baby upright after feeding.
Reflux is often worse when a baby is lying flat; it can help if you position your baby so that their head is gently raised, particularly during and after feeds. Do not, however, allow your baby to sleep on a pillow, and ensure that they sleep in a flat position at night for safety.
If your baby continues to experience problems with reflux it may be necessary to introduce medication which will reduce the severity. The most commonly prescribed drugs are Domperidone, Ranitidine and Omeprazole.
Domperidone is a medicine that increases the movements or contractions of the stomach and bowel, Ranitidine and Omeprazole both work by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces. With each growth spurt reflux medication will need to be adjusted particularly if the symptoms return, your baby may have outgrown the dosage of their medication. Eventually your baby will no longer require treatment for reflux and will begin to enjoy eating as the weaning process progresses.
For more information on the needs of premature babies visit
http://www.teddyandme.co.uk Teddy & Me The UKs leading Premature and Tiny Baby Store.
by: Charlie Bucket
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