Q. My baby is 2 months of age and is very unsettled. He only sleeps for sometimes 15-30 mins at a time during the day. At night he does sleep longer. I think because he is so tired from not sleeping in the day. He fusses with his feeding, arching his back and sometimes vomits after the feed. He looks like he is in pain or has wind. I have heard of reflex but I am not sure what it is and if that is what is wrong with my baby. Can you help?

A. Irregular sleep patterns, fussing with feeds, re-swallowing of milk (vomit then re-swallow) or sometimes vomiting up milk in small or large amounts, arching and distress at different times are a common combination of symptoms which may indicate the possibility of 'reflux'. Treatment is varied depending on the symptoms of each baby. Help from you Child & Family Health Nurse with settling and feeding can be of great benefit. For a diagnosis and treatment of reflux see you family doctor or paediatrician. You can also obtain more information about reflux and some suggestions by downloading our Information Brochure on the Karitane Website, or by calling the Karitane Careline.

Q. My 13 month old boy has had continuous reflux, I think. He has had a barium swallow x-ray and came out normal. He can bring up a whole bottle of milk but not every bottle. Since he has been on solid food he also can bring his meal up. What can I do?

A. It is very difficult to make a diagnosis without seeing your child. It sounds like you have already consulted your doctor about this problem but if you are still concerned you may need to return to your doctor, or Child & Family Health Nurse for further assessment and advice. Usually when children have reflux it is more constant and not as intermittent as you describe. Most children with reflux as babies grow out of it as they become older. It may be beneficial ceasing the bottles and offer food followed by a cup of milk. It is important not to overfeed and cease feeding when hunger has been satisfied.

Immunisation

Q. When is my baby's immunisation due?

A. Immunisation is very important to keep your baby healthy. Recommendations change as new and improved vaccines are introduced.