Not only in adults, babies can also experience distended or enlarged stomachs. What actually causes a baby’s distended stomach and when does this condition need to be watched out for?
Yes, in babies, Mothers often find that their stomach looks bigger or rounder. If this condition occurs, first pay attention to the baby’s response. Has he just finished feeding? Or does it seem difficult to breathe too?
In certain cases, a baby’s distended stomach does not actually indicate a serious problem. But if it’s accompanied by other symptoms that make the baby fussy or seem uncomfortable, try to consult a doctor too, Mother.
ADVERTISEMENT
SCROLL TO RESUME CONTENT
Bloated Baby Stomach, Is It Normal?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a baby’s stomach that looks distended or enlarged is actually normal and reasonable. Usually, a child’s stomach looks distended when he has just finished feeding a large amount.
Later, the baby’s stomach will slowly shrink by itself and will no longer look enlarged. So, there’s actually nothing to worry about from the appearance of a distended baby’s stomach as long as he doesn’t look fussy or uncomfortable in that part.
Causes of Bloated Stomach in Babies
As quoted from Kids Health, a distended stomach in babies is also normal and can be caused by various factors. Here are some examples of causes of distended stomach in babies:
1. The satiety factor
After finishing breastfeeding, a baby who is full will usually have an enlarged stomach. Just like adults, babies also need time to digest the food or drink they consume.
Moreover, the baby’s digestive system is still in the process of development, so the time needed to digest may be longer.
2. Flatulence
A child’s distended stomach but doesn’t hurt can also be caused by bloating, Mother. Mainly because babies still often swallow a lot of air when crying or while feeding.
If your baby seems restless after feeding, try burping him. Mother can position the baby’s body on his stomach and gently massage his back.
3. How much
Colic is a condition that is also common in newborns. Usually colic is more experienced by babies at around 6 weeks of age. Therefore, the baby’s stomach may often look enlarged at around one month of age.
If the baby’s stomach appears distended accompanied by continuous crying for no apparent reason, there is a possibility that he is experiencing colic, Mother.
Other signs to watch for include curling of the legs and tightening of the abdominal muscles.
4. Lactose intolerance
Quoted from Healthline, lactose intolerance can also make a baby’s stomach look bigger. Other symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Therefore, the baby may look restless, fussy and keep crying.
Diseases to Watch Out For If Your Baby’s Stomach Is Distended
Even though a baby’s distended stomach is actually still considered normal, there are several diseases that also need to be watched out for. Especially if this condition occurs in the long term and is accompanied by other unusual symptoms.
The following is a review of diseases to watch out for if your baby has a distended stomach:
1. Impaired absorption of nutrients
In infants, impaired absorption of nutrients or malabsorption is quite common. The AAP states that this disorder occurs because the baby’s body has not been able to digest certain nutrients.
To determine whether a distended stomach in a baby is caused by a disturbance in the absorption of nutrients, immediately consult a doctor, Mother.
2. Swelling of the heart
Another disease that also needs to be watched out for when the baby’s stomach is distended is swelling of the liver. Enlargement of the liver is also known as biliary atresia.
Other symptoms to watch out for from biliary atresia include:
The baby’s skin and eyes appear yellowish (jaundice) The baby’s urine looks dark yellow or dark The baby’s stool looks a bit white or gray The baby’s growth is not optimal
3. Allergies
Babies who have started solids are prone to allergies to certain food ingredients. Babies can also have an allergy to cow’s milk.
How to Overcome a Bloated and Hard Belly in Babies
As previously mentioned, if a baby has a distended stomach, looks enlarged, and is hard without being accompanied by other symptoms, then this is likely caused by a buildup of gas or bloating. Therefore, how to deal with what you can do at home, for example:
Use telon oil and gently massage the baby’s stomach Make the baby burp, namely by positioning the body on its stomach and then stroking and gently patting the back Routinely let the baby be in the prone position alias tummy time, because this position is believed to put light pressure on the stomach so that excess gas can be relieved get out Do the cycling movement, namely position the baby’s body lying on his back and swing his legs like he is pedaling a bicycle. This movement can also put a little pressure on the stomach and make it easier for excess gas to come out.
Thus a review of distended baby stomachs, as well as how to deal with distended stomachs in babies. Don’t delay immediately consulting a doctor if you find any unusual conditions in your little one. Including frequent fuss, rashes, changes in skin color, and looks uncomfortable when his stomach is touched.
For mothers who want to share about parenting and can get lots of giveaways, let’s join the HaiBunda Squad community. Register click HERE. Free!
(rap/rap)
