Loss of appetite in infants

An infant may feed less because of a blocked nose, fever, mouth discomfort, reflux, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, or tiredness. COVID-19 and Influenza can affect feeding during an infection. Gastroenteritis may cause vomiting or diarrhoea, while other digestive conditions can also disturb feeding. Notice whether the baby is alert, accepts any fluid or milk, and produces the usual wet nappies. A short change may settle, but infants can become unwell without being able to describe symptoms.

Continue offering breast milk or the usual formula in smaller, more frequent feeds. Keep the baby comfortable and clear a blocked nose as advised by a clinician. Do not dilute formula, add water to feeds, give herbal or homeopathic products, or use medicines without professional advice. Record feeds, wet nappies, vomiting, stool changes, temperature, breathing, and alertness. Contact a paediatric clinician promptly if feeding remains below the baby’s usual pattern.

Seek urgent help if the baby is difficult to wake, has breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, repeated vomiting, a seizure, markedly fewer wet nappies, a dry mouth, no tears when crying, or cannot keep feeds down. Get prompt advice for fever, diarrhoea, worsening sleepiness, yellowing skin or eyes, or a clear fall in feeding. Do not wait for weight change before asking for help.

Ask whether the feeding amount and wet nappies are adequate, how to manage congestion or vomiting, whether the formula or medicine routine needs review, and which symptoms should trigger emergency care.