Your baby is vomiting yellow mucus because this type of vomit, known as bilious vomiting, contains bile. Bile, a fluid made by the liver, is responsible for the yellow color in the vomit. According to the reference material, the presence of bile in vomit typically suggests there might be a blockage or twisting in the baby’s intestine or bowel.
Understanding Bilious Vomiting
When a baby vomits, the color of the vomit can be an important clue about the underlying cause. Here's a breakdown:
| Vomit Color | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Clear or white | Generally normal or related to feeding |
| Green or yellow (bilious) | Bile present, may indicate an obstruction or issue in the intestines. |
Possible Causes of Bilious Vomiting
The presence of bile in the vomit, which gives it the yellow or green color, is a sign that the contents of the small intestine are being regurgitated. This is generally due to:
- Obstruction: A blockage that prevents normal passage through the intestines. This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Intestinal malrotation
- Intussusception
- Hirschsprung’s disease
- Twisting: A twisting or kinking of the bowel, which can also lead to a blockage. This can impede blood flow.
What Should You Do?
If your baby is vomiting yellow mucus, it is crucial to:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Bilious vomiting is a serious symptom and should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible.
- Do not feed your baby: Wait for medical advice on when and what to feed your baby.
- Provide details to the doctor: Note any other symptoms your baby is experiencing (fever, lethargy, etc.) along with the frequency and amount of vomiting.
Conclusion
Bilious vomiting is a cause for concern and requires prompt medical assessment to diagnose and treat the underlying issue, which usually involves some form of intestinal obstruction or bowel twisting.
