Vomiting and reflux in babies: causes and which doctor to see

For vomiting and reflux in babies you can first see: Pediatrics. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.

Common symptoms: bringing up small amounts of milk after feeds; hiccups and burping; fussiness during feeds; projectile vomiting (important). Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.

The most common causes: normal infant reflux (immature valve at the top of the stomach); overfeeding or feeding too fast; cow’s milk protein allergy; pyloric stenosis (projectile vomiting, weeks 2–8); infections. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.

Infant reflux usually goes away by itself by 12–18 months. If there is an underlying cause, it is treated.

In a baby who is gaining weight, feeding well and happy, it is normal and passes with time.

Especially in babies aged 2–8 weeks, it can be due to pyloric stenosis; see a paediatrician the same day.

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is the vomit green (bile-stained) or bloody?” “Is the baby vomiting forcefully after every feed?” “Is the baby not gaining weight, having fewer wet nappies or listless?” “Is the soft spot sunken or the tummy swollen?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”

See a doctor: the vomiting is increasing or weight gain is poor; the same day for green or projectile vomiting.