Long story short, my baby was born by c-section a few days early and on initial assessment, was found to have a tongue tie. On day 5 he was admitted to nicu with sepsis and it was found that he had 2 holes in the heart which may close over or require surgery (we find out in a month). We have also had multiple stays in hospital due to breathing concerns.
Anyhow, he always has had problems feeding. Gave up breast feeding as even with the tongue tie snipped he couldn't latch properly. Have been combi feeding expressed and formula since. However, he will only have 2 oz of feed before he struggles and refuses the bottle even though he still shows all the signs of hunger. I have tried multiple bottles/teats and flows and none make a difference. Also tried infacol but ut made no difference. His tummy also makes a lot of noises and his bowel movements are diarrhea (i think). He is clearly in pain soon after starting. They have now put him onto lactose free milk but this hasn't made a difference (but it is early days).
I would have to distract and it would take an hour to get him to drink any more than 3 oz. Health visitor has now recommended only feeding for 30 mins or until he fusses. However this is pretty soon after drinking. I would be happy to trial this is he hadn't have already dropped 2 major centiles (25th to 5th) and is now classed as failure to thrive. I have done it for 1 day so far and he only consumed 500mls.
Feeding is upsetting for both me and the baby and it is becoming awe consuming. It is horrible to see your baby in pain when they should enjoy feeding. I am worried sick that I am starving him but nobody seems to be doing anything quick.
Just wondering if anyone has experienced anything similar? I'm thinking possible CMPA or just generally that he cannot feed properly. I'm at a loss and feel like a crap mum.