Top 7 Treatments for Abdominal Distension
Abdominal distention can occur in infants due to several causes including problems with the feeding schedule or a serious underlying disorder. Identifying the cause of abdominal distention and treating it properly can help the baby feel at ease and prevent serious consequences. Here are the top 7 treatments for abdominal distention in infants.
7. Burping
Most parents do not burp the child after feeding due to which the air swallowed by them during feeding remains in the stomach causing digestion. This symptom can be easily avoided by burping the child. [1]
6. Simethicone drops
If abdominal distention is caused due to the accumulation of gas in the stomach and abdomen, it can be managed effectively by using Simethicone drops. Simethicone can help to reduce the amount of gas in the stomach and provide relief from abdominal distention. [2]
5. Reduce breastfeeding duration
If abdominal distention occurs more frequently after feeding, it can be avoided by reducing the amount or duration of feeding. Limiting the child’s intake of milk would reduce the overload on the stomach and intestine and prevent abdominal distention. [3]
4. Antibiotics
The use of antibiotics can be beneficial for infants suffering from abdominal distention due to gastroenteritis. Antibiotics may also be needed if the child is suffering from a more serious disorder such as appendicitis or abdominal obstruction. The treatment may have to be combined with surgery for complete recovery. [4]
3. Surgery
Surgery may be required in serious causes of abdominal distention caused due to congenital anomalies or intestinal obstruction. Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound of the abdomen, and barium meals are recommended to detect the underlying anomalies, especially when the symptoms are severe and persistent. [5]
2. Constipation
It is common for bottle-fed infants to develop abdominal distention due to constipation. It can be managed by diluting the infant formula further to increase the proportion of water in it. If abdominal distention and constipation persist, the infant formula may have to be changed. Babies usually feel relieved and sleep well after passing stools. [6]
1. Cancer therapies
Abdominal tumors in infants such as neuroblastoma may cause pressure on the lumen of the intestine causing distention of the abdomen. Infants diagnosed with neuroblastoma need to undergo cancer therapies that may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. [7]
Conclusion
Proper treatment of abdominal distention in infants is essential for restoring healthy functions of the digestive tract.