Tiny Tummy Trouble
What is pyloric stenosis, in baby-sized words?
It’s when the muscle at the bottom of the stomach gets too thick and blocks food from leaving.
What's the #1 classic symptom that’s associated with Pyloric Stenosis?
Projectile vomiting after feeding.
Which quick test will give you a look at that tight pylorus?
Abdominal ultrasound.
What’s the name of the surgery to fix pyloric stenosis?
Pyloromyotomy.
What’s one reassuring thing you can say about recovery from this surgery?
It heals quickly with minimal scarring.
Which part of the GI tract gets all uptight and narrow in pyloric stenosis?
The pyloric sphincter.
Is the vomit green and gross or milky and sad?
Milky and non-bilious.
What does the lab report say? (name 2)
Hypokalemia and hypochloremia.
What is the top priority pre-op?
Fix fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
How do parents monitor hydration at home?
Count wet diapers, check for tears when crying.
Which gender’s most likely to star in this stomach drama?
First-born boys.
What little abdominal mystery might you feel when examining the baby?
A tiny olive-shaped mass in the RUQ.
What’s that cool name for the “narrowed passage” seen on imaging?
The "string" sign.
When does the baby usually start eating again post-op?
About 4–6 hours, starting with small amounts.
When should parents call the doctor post-op?
Signs of infection (redness, fever, swelling, drainage).
Around what age does pyloric stenosis usually start causing trouble?
An infant usually does not show signs of pyloric stenosis until they are about 2 months old.
What dehydration clue might you see in baby’s diaper routine?
Fewer wet diapers.
Why must fluids and electrolytes be fixed before surgery?
To stabilize the baby and prevent complications.
How should you position the baby after feeds?
Upright – no lying down!
Should parents feed normally right away?
Feedings are gradually resumed as per provider instructions.
What’s the most likely thing pyloric stenosis will mess up: blood pressure, digestion, or potty training?
Digestion – food can’t pass the stomach.
Which serious imbalance might you expect with all that vomiting?
Metabolic alkalosis (↑ pH, ↓ potassium & chloride).
What lab issue explains the baby’s cranky crying and sunken fontanel?
Dehydration.
What do you tell worried parents if the baby throws up once or twice after surgery?
It’s normal within the first 24–48 hours.
What common fear can you ease?
That one or two episodes of vomiting after surgery are okay – it doesn’t mean failure!