How is the pyloric stenosis diagnosed?

Answer 1

The clearest signs are violent vomiting after feeds, unstained by bile because the liver is not involved, and immediately followed by hunger - the baby doesn't feel sick. This will cause loss of weight and condition (malnutrition, dehydration, sleepiness). If a child has the condition, the doctor should be able to feel a hard mass (about 2 cm wide and olive shaped) in the area above the bellybutton, and/or see rippling muscle movements across the upper belly after feeds. If these signs are not clear an ultrasound or x-ray may be used for diagnosis.

Answer 2

Pyloric stenosis is typically diagnosed by a physical exam, ultrasound, and blood tests. A healthcare provider may feel the olive-shaped mass in the baby's abdomen, perform an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis, and order blood tests to check for dehydration and electrolyte imbalance due to frequent vomiting.