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Thursday, December 16, 2010 Valerie asks

Q: My son is 6 months old and was put on zantac about 3 weeks ago. At first I thought it was helping as he didn't seem to be in pain while feeding but now I'm not so sure.

My son is 6 months old born on time not premature weighs 16 pounds right now. He was eating well and gaining weight well until 6 weeks of age, then everything went haywire. I was breastfeeding exclusively and was having problems. For many months I though thats how it was supposed to be or that he didn't like my milk or that I didn't have enough. When I switched to bottle, I saw that he ate and still till this date eats 1-2 oz quickly and then the struggle begins. I'm concerned that this medication is not working for him. After that first ounce he just either nibbles on the nipple of the bottle or pushes the bottle away or cries. Trying to get him to eat 4 oz is such a struggle. Which I think he should be eating more at this age. It usually takes one full hour and sometimes I have to wait until he falls asleep to feed him. The only times that its not struggle to feed him is when he is sleeping. I am usually able to get into him within 24 hours approximately 23 oz. I am worried that he is not eating enough. Any help would be greatly appreciated
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Jan Gambino, Health Guide
12/17/10 6:52am

Hello Valerie,

You have given an excellent description of your son's feeding struggles. Please keep in mind that you are a wonderful mother and your milk is just fine. He is communicating to you that something hurts and feels uncomfortable when he is eating. Whether it is reflux, a food allergy or intolerance or something else, that is between you and the doctor to figure out.

Keep a running record of how he eats for a few days. Then make an appointment with the doctor to discuss your concerns.His pattern of eating a small amount, feeling distress/discomfort, taking a long time to eat a small amount and the sleep feedings are not typical feeding patterns for a 6 month old. Ask the doctor for assistance with his feeding issues.

Since you are a wonderful mom, you have been ensuring that he grows and eats despite the pain. That is hard work and a big burden for you. Feeding should not be such hard work for both of you.

Let me know what you find out.

Take care, Jan

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By Valerie— Last Modified: 12/26/10, First Published: 12/16/10