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Patient education: Pyloric stenosis in babies (The Basics)

Patient education: Pyloric stenosis in babies (The Basics)

What is pyloric stenosis? — 

This is a condition that causes forceful vomiting in babies. It is caused by a problem with the "pylorus," which is the opening between the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (figure 1).

Normally, food passes through the pylorus without a problem. But in pyloric stenosis, the muscle in the pylorus gets too thick and blocks the opening. Then, food can't pass from the stomach to the intestine. This causes symptoms.

Pyloric stenosis happens most often in young babies, especially in babies 3 to 6 weeks old. It rarely happens in babies older than 3 months. Doctors don't know for sure what causes pyloric stenosis, but the condition sometimes runs in families.

What are the symptoms of pyloric stenosis? — 

Pyloric stenosis causes vomiting, usually right after a feeding. The vomiting is very forceful, so it shoots far out from the baby's mouth. This is sometimes called "projectile vomiting." This type of vomiting is different from the vomiting that happens when a baby spits up, which is less forceful.

It is common for babies with pyloric stenosis to seem hungry and want to feed again after they vomit.

Should I call my baby's doctor or nurse? — 

Yes. If your baby has these symptoms, tell their doctor or nurse.

Is there a test for pyloric stenosis? — 

Yes. The doctor or nurse will ask about your baby's symptoms and do an exam. This will help the doctor or nurse decide whether your baby's vomiting is normal (spitting up) or not.

If the doctor or nurse thinks that your baby might have pyloric stenosis, they will probably do an imaging test called an ultrasound. This uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body.

How is pyloric stenosis treated? — 

It is usually treated with surgery. During surgery, the doctor widens the pylorus so that food can pass through it from the stomach to the intestines.

More on this topic

Patient education: Nausea and vomiting in babies and children (The Basics)

Patient education: Nausea and vomiting in infants and children (Beyond the Basics)

This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: May 11, 2025.
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