Reflux Versus Vomiting: How to Tell

• During the first month of life, newborns with true vomiting need to be seen immediately because the causes can be serious. Therefore, it's important to distinguish between reflux and true vomiting.
• Reflux: The following suggest reflux (spitting up): infant previously diagnosed with reflux, onset early in life (85% by 7 days of life), present for several days or weeks, no discomfort during reflux, no diarrhea, hungry, looks well and acts happy.
• Vomiting: The following suggest vomiting: uncomfortable during vomiting, new symptom starting today or yesterday, associated diarrhea, projectile or forceful vomiting, looks or acts sick.