Posts Tagged ‘stress for mom’

Since a baby’s immune system isn’t fully developed baby health issues are a major concern for new parents. If you are the mother of a newborn baby, and this is your first child, then it is probable that you will become stressed if your baby doesn’t seem to be feeling well or you see a new rash creeping up. There are baby health issues you will need to become familiar with and they may not always be cause for alarm. If you are familiar with the basic baby health issues to expect it can help to relieve some of your tension.

Here are a few common baby health issues you might expect:

• Diaper rash-No matter how hard you try, your baby will probably develop baby diaper rash. This form of skin inflammation occurs around the thighs and buttocks, due to enzymes in the baby’s urine and stools. There are over-the-counter ointments to help clear up baby diaper rash, but look for a skin softener and protective barrier. Some baby wipes contain alcohol, which can be drying to the baby’s skin, so wipe gently with warm water and soft paper towel. Petroleum jelly can protect the skin, however natural remedies include dusting with cornstarch and frequent diaper changes are gentler on the babies skin.
• Baby acne-This is a common skin rash that appears on the cheeks, chin and forehead. It will eventually go away on its own, but you should keep the baby’s skin clean with water and mild soap.
• Baby Colic- Pediatricians use the “Rule of Three” to diagnose colic, diagnosed as a baby that cries for more than three hours per day, three times a week, in a three-month period. Causes include allergic reactions, acid reflux, excessive air intake, an immature digestive or nervous system and over-stimulation can play a part. Trapped gas and bloating can cause sleeplessness and stomach or intestinal problems. Colic usually starts a few weeks after birth and should go away by the time they are 3 months old. Feed your baby upright, burp often, give the baby a warm bath and gently rub the baby’s stomach. Rocking your baby can soothe it and if you are breastfeeding, only eat mild foods and avoid spicy foods, citrus fruit and caffeine.
• High Temperature or Fever- Babies might run a fever and have other symptoms that accompany it. If your baby is congested or vomiting, fever is a way the baby’s body fights infection. It is not unusual for the baby to run a fever up to 104 degrees. For babies under 2 months, it should be checked out immediately because there are other baby health issues and infections they may be prone to. After 2 months, you might wait a day before calling the pediatrician. Cool water in a Bottle can relieve fever, but keep the baby warm and bundled.
• Upper respiratory or ear infections-These two baby health issues might co-exist, due to sinus drainage. You can ease congestion with a humidifier and raising the baby’s head slightly while sleeping, can help. If accompanied by fever, heavy congestion or pulling at the ears, see your doctor to eliminate the possibility of pneumonia and other baby health issues.

These are just a few of the most common baby health issues. Any changes in your baby’s habits should be carefully monitored. Make sure that your baby has their regular appointments with the pediatrician, as this will help to catch anything that can be more serious before it becomes a problem.