Poor feeding in infants - Causes and remedies

Causes of poor feeding in infants

One of the most common causes of poor feeding is premature birth. This is because premature babies are typically poor feeders because they often have not yet developed the skills needed to suck and swallow milk. But the feeding usually increases as the baby grows. But if the feeding problem persists even after leaving the hospital, then it is important to stay in close touch with your paediatrician.

Apart from this, other causes include:

1. Serious conditions such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, congenital hypothyroidism, down syndrome, hypoplastic left heart, and other heart defects.

2. Temporary illnesses can also make feeding uncomfortable for infants. This includes diarrhoea, ear infection, cough and cold, and teething.

Emergency care

Feeding difficulty is a matter of serious concern. Seek immediate medical attention if your baby is showing any of the following signs:

• Has a fever of over 100°F (37.8°C). It is an emergency in babies 3 months old and younger

• Vomits after every feeding

• Vomits blood

• Has cough with breathing difficulties

• Cries constantly

• Has bloody stool

• Wheezing

• Is unresponsive to touch

Treatment of poor feeding in infants

Treatment of poor feeding depends on the cause. This can involve changing the feeding schedule to consist of smaller, more frequent meals. This problem also stops when the underlying infection is resolved.

Home Remedies

If there isn't any serious medical problem causing the poor feeding habits in your baby, you can try following home remedies:

1. If your baby is exclusively breastfed, you need to stop applying any cream or lotion around your nipples, as scent of these products may be uncomfortable for the baby.

2. If your baby is formula fed, consult your paediatrician and try a different formula brand.

3. If you have introduced solid foods, give different food items each time and even introduce different veggies and fruits. This will encourage him, to try the food items and will also make mealtimes more enjoyable.