Pyloric stenosis

What is pyloric stenosis?

Pyloric stenosis (say: pie-LOR-ick stuh-NO-sis) occurs when the opening from the stomach to the intestine is blocked. This opening is called the pylorus (say: pie-LOR-us). There is a muscle around this opening. Normally, this muscle keeps food in the stomach when it tightens. It lets food out of the stomach into the intestines when it relaxes.

Boys have pyloric stenosis more often than girls.

Pyloric stenosis

Signs and symptoms of pyloric stenosis

The symptoms of pyloric stenosis usually appear between two and six weeks of life but may occur later. Symptoms may include:

• persistent projectile vomiting within 30 minutes after feeding
• constant hunger (initially), especially after vomiting
• very tired
• smaller and fewer bowel movements
• weight loss
• dehydration, indicated by tearless crying

The condition is rare in babies older than three months.

If you feel that your baby is dehydrated or has pyloric stenosis, see a doctor right away. Until you see a doctor, frequently offer your baby small amounts of food.

Causes of pyloric stenosis

When this muscle is thick and tight, it cannot relax properly. This causes a blockage. The pylorus becomes very narrow. Breast milk or formula cannot pass easily from the stomach to the intestine. This makes your baby vomit. Surgery is needed.

What your child's doctor can do

Your baby's doctor will do a physical exam. The doctor will order an ultrasound. If your baby has this condition, they will need surgery. The surgeon will cut the tight muscle between the stomach and the small intestine. This loosens the muscle so the stomach can empty. Food will then be able to pass easily into the small intestine.

This is a common, simple operation. It will not affect your baby's growth.

When to get medical assistance

See the doctor right away or visit the nearest Emergency Department if:

• your baby is dehydrated
• your baby has constant projectile vomiting
• your baby is losing weight
• your baby is not peeing as much as usual
• your baby seems very tired or drowsy