The most prominent way pyloric stenosis "looks" is through the characteristic forceful, projectile vomiting it causes in affected infants. This condition is a narrowing of the pylorus, the opening from the stomach to the small intestine, which prevents food from passing through normally.
The Hallmarks of Pyloric Stenosis: Projectile Vomiting
The primary observable symptom of pyloric stenosis is a very distinct type of vomiting:
- Forceful and Projectile: This isn't just a gentle spit-up. The vomit is expelled with significant force, often traveling several feet across a room. It's much more intense than a typical "wet burp" or the small amount of milk a baby might dribble after a feeding.
- Large Volume: Babies with pyloric stenosis vomit large amounts of breast milk or formula, often the entire contents of a feeding.
- Non-Bilious: The vomit usually consists of milk or formula and does not contain bile (which would make it appear green or yellow). This indicates that the obstruction is before the point where bile enters the digestive system.
- Timing: This severe vomiting typically begins suddenly, often between 3 to 6 weeks of age, though it can appear earlier or later. It frequently occurs shortly after feeding.
Distinguishing Vomiting Types
It's crucial to differentiate this characteristic vomiting from normal infant spitting up:
| Feature | Projectile Vomiting (Pyloric Stenosis) | Regular Spit-up / Wet Burp |
|---|---|---|
| Force | High pressure, expelled forcefully, travels a distance | Low pressure, gentle overflow or dribble |
| Volume | Large amounts, often entire feeding | Small amounts, may be just a tablespoon or two |
| Frequency | Increases over time, may occur after every feeding | Occasional, usually after burping or feeding |
| Baby's Demeanor | Often remains hungry afterward, may become irritable/lethargic | Generally content and comfortable |
| Impact on Weight | Leads to weight loss or poor weight gain | Baby continues to gain weight normally |
| Appearance of Vomit | Milk/formula, no bile (not green) | Milk/formula, sometimes curdled |
Other Observable Signs in Your Baby
Beyond the distinctive vomiting, pyloric stenosis can also "look like" other signs of distress or malnourishment in an infant:
- Hunger After Vomiting: Despite repeatedly vomiting large quantities, the baby often appears very hungry and wants to feed again almost immediately.
- Weight Loss or Poor Weight Gain: Due to the inability to keep food down, infants with pyloric stenosis will fail to gain weight and may even lose weight, appearing thin and unwell over time.
- Dehydration: Signs of dehydration may become visible, including:
- Decreased urination (fewer wet diapers)
- Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
- Sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the baby's head
- Dry mouth and fewer tears when crying
- Visible Peristaltic Waves: Sometimes, especially after feeding, you might observe wave-like muscle contractions rippling across the baby's upper abdomen from left to right. This is the stomach muscles trying vigorously to push food through the narrowed pylorus.
- Irritability and Fussiness: Constant hunger and discomfort from vomiting can make the baby increasingly fussy and irritable.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If your baby exhibits forceful, projectile vomiting or any of the other signs mentioned above, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Pyloric stenosis is a serious condition that can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if not treated promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a full recovery. For more information, you can consult reputable sources like the Mayo Clinic.
