Newborn Care: When To Call A Doctor
If you are new to newborn care then one of the most
important questions that you want to ask a doctor is when to
call him and how to know that the baby is really sick. As a
parent it becomes mandatory for you to find out if your child
is really sick or just being grumpy. Some of the common
symptoms that you can keep an eye out for are external symptoms
and signs like vomiting( digestive problems or problems related
to stomach), breathing problems( allergies or problems related
to lungs), rashes( skin related problems), cuts and abrasions(
improper handling of baby) that may indicate the problem. While
these symptoms are sometimes mild or inconclusive, they may be
taken lightly. There are some other symptoms which should be
dealt with utmost care and caution and a doctor should be
called immediately. Some of such symptoms are:
* Ear infections: Continuous tugging with
the ear and an agitated behavior with frequent crying could be
the symptom of an ear infection. One of the basic ear infection
symptom is having difficulty in sleeping while resting the head
sideways on an ear. Though not serious, this condition baby
should be checked by a doctor.
* Eye infections: A discharge from eye should
never be taken lightly. Immediately call a doctor if such
symptom is seen. You should call a doctor immediately.
* Respiratory infections: There are several
kinds of respiratory infections that a baby can have. If you
have done newborn care earlier you might know that Common cold,
allergies, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (SRV) are some
of the common respiratory infections that babies suffer
from.
Common cold and flu are considered very
contagious and awfully uncomfortable for a baby, who cannot
wipe or clean his own nose and may get difficulty in breathing.
Although, many pediatricians advise over the counter medicines
and lots of liquids, you should check for SRV if the condition
prevails for a long time. Syncytial virus (SRV) is very
contagious and care should be taken with the baby around other
kids. In severe cases SRV could lead to bronchitis or
pneumonia.
* Difficulty in breathing: You should
immediately call a doctor if the baby is seen having difficulty
in breathing for more then a few seconds. As basic newborn care
principles before calling the doctor see that the baby has a
clear nose and is not in any uncomfortable position which could
hinder the baby’s breathing.
* Appetite changes: people with newborn care
experience may know that babies can be fussy in eating, but if
you see an abrupt change in the appetite of the baby, if he/she
refuses to eat after some meals, consider calling a doctor.
* Lethargy or unresponsiveness: If the baby is
not moving or is slow in response to cognitive stimulations
like light, sound or touch, Call the doctor immediately! This
is a serious condition.
* Fever: Normally it is common for babies to
have fever but if the baby’s fever is over 100.4 degrees then
it is time to call a doctor.
Apart from the above mentioned common symptoms, there are
many other symptoms that you have to consider and rely on your
parenting common sense to call a doctor or not.
| 