Should I change formula or is it reflux?

[Mel55]

DS has been bottle fed for the past week, previously I was exclusively BF.  I started him on Enfamil powder formula and then a few days into it switched to Good Start concentrate (in the cans).  About a week before starting bottles/formula while I was still EBF, DS had a few bouts of projectile vomiting after each feed where it'd even come out his nose, etc.  I attributed it to what I was eating and didn't think much of it.

Now on the Good Start, DS is vomiting constantly after feeding and screams with gas pain about ~45 mintues after feeding.  I'm burping him after every ounce he drinks, and so far is drinking 3-4 oz per feeding. 

Should I change the formula or is this something I need to see my Dr. about?  I've read about reflux but am not sure if that's what this is.

Any thoughts?

[Mum to Ella Rose]

Read the reflux 101 sticky at the top of this forum for more info on reflux. SOunds like it could be... especially the time frame for the screaming. As far as projectile, does it actually travel a few feet? Hit walls, etc? If it does it could be the bottom sphincter in the tummy instead, the pylorus, that is the problem and that needs pretty immediate medical attention.

{{{hugs}}} oh and you could try the enfamil with added rice starch. We used it with dd and it helped a great deal with the vomit.

[Mel55]

Will check out the sticky.  The biggest thing is that he doesn't scream when put down/lying flat.  He will eventually settle so that's got me confused.  As for projectile, the vomit doesn't just pour out of his mouth, it shoots out.  Not always but it's a big huge splash and goes over my shoulder to whatever's behind me .

My brother had Pyloric Stenosis when he was a baby and had surgery.  My mom saw DS vomiting a few times and that was the first thing she said was that he could have Pyloric Stenosis. 

I guess I'll try changing formula and see how things go in the next few days, and then go see the pediatrician if nothing's changed. 

[stagemanager2]

I would highly reccomend getting the pyloric stenosis checked out... now.

DS had it and after research on the liklihood of his children having it almost triples the chances of children getting it... Genetics plays a HUGE part in when children get it!  How old is your lo?  DS got to the point where he was so dehydrated that he didn't have a wet diaper for 6-12 hours.  He hadn't pooped in 3days and you could see his ribs.  So lethargic that he slept for 12 hrs without food in his stomach for 6 before that.  I'm sure you know all about the illness but I urge you to forget the formula for right now and just go to the docter.  That's something we should have done.  DS was fine but we waited almost too long. 

I can understand why your mom would say that first... it really is awful if you let it go too long.  If it runs in your family I beg you as a mother who went through the surgery and hospital visit when he was soooo bad they had to wait days before they could do surgery because he was so weak...

[binxyboo]

I am so glad stagemanager2 saw this post, I read it earlier and was about to pm her so she could share her experience with you.

I would go to the doctor now. I would not wait. Hopefully it will turn out to be nothing major, but you don't want to take that chance.

Why did you change the brand of formula as well?

Hugs and good luck xx

[stagemanager2]

I have to apologize for my bossy post but I sit here in tears shaking thinking of the awful weeks no one would listen to us when we said something was wrong with our baby.  The doc said it was just spit up and to not worry about it.  This brings back all the bad memories I have and the anger I felt towards all who told me to stop over reacting... I'm sorry but it really is awful to watch as they stick a needle into your baby and tell you it will be days before he'll be able to eat... if you want to pm me to learn a bit more about what actually happened during the whole escapade please do.

I never want to think another baby will have to go through this like my son had to.  catch it early.  you may cut back on the amount of time you spend in the hospital after/before surgery...

[binxyboo]

Huge huge hugs to you, Heather. I can't even imagine xx

[Mel55]

Thanks for your posts, Heather.  I'm so sorry for what you had to go through. 

I called my mom and she said the same thing happened with my brother, no wet diapers and he was really dehydrated. 

I'll give my ped a call in the a.m. and get him in.  You just never know. 

Thanks.  Big hugs to you.

[stagemanager2]

Thanks for the hugs, I'm ok now 

I would like to say I am not crazy as these previous posts make me seem I just couldn't make my mind work and type at the same time..  I hope the doc visit goes ok, keep us up to date...

and I'm not just saying that..