When having a newborn baby, all that is on your mind is to keep them safe and healthy. Everything that is on your mind during that first year is to boost their immune system and make it stronger. Mums know that it is very normal, and common, for newborns to get a little ill. But because they are our helpless little ones, we feel more worried than ever. That is why we rounded up the common newborn health problems and how to handle them.
What are the most common newborn health problems?
1| Colic
Almost every newborn baby gets colic when they are only months old. The gas and irritation makes them cry for help around the clock. While this makes most mums terrified, it is quite common. Colic happens when babies swallow more air than they should when feeding. And gas, even when it comes to adults, causes a lot of irritation and pain.
How to treat it?
There are many things that you can do to relieve your little one from colic, including:
- – Massaging your baby’s tummy.
- – Use anti-colic feeding bottles and teats.
- – This one for the mums, avoid foods that might cause gas.
- – Making sure your baby burped.
- – Use a good feeding pillow to avoid reflux.
- – Using a gaspasser.
2| Constipation
Changing dirty diapers is not the greatest treat for mums. But what is worse is when your baby’s diaper is empty for days. This worries most mums, and irritates their babies quite a lot. Constipation can be a result of changing your baby’s diet, like using a new kind of formula. It can also happen when moving to solid foods.
There are many things you can do when your baby is constipated. A warm bath followed by a massage is at the top of your list. Also, make sure your baby eats fibers and stays hydrated.
3| Infant jaundice
Infant jaundice is very common amongst newborn babies. And usually, it is not something to be worried about. But as a new mum, anything concerning your newborn baby is worth worrying about. You can tell your baby has jaundice when their skin, eyes, poo, or urine are yellowish.
It is always best to consult your pediatrician for treatment. They will usually recommend things like:
- – Feeding your baby well to keep them nourished and healthy.
- – Getting them a little healthy sun exposure.
- – Consulting a doctor if need be.
4| Baby acne
Sometimes, newborn babies can get acne. Baby acne is like little tiny pimples with a white surface. And it is not only on their faces, but all over their little bodies. This happens sometimes as an effect of your own hormones on your baby. Which they get through breastfeeding. On the other hand, it might have nothing to do with you. Because it can be the start of baby eczema.
What to do?
- – Pay extra attention to your baby’s hygiene. Especially after feeding.
- – Use products that do not cause an allergic reaction.
- – Keep your baby’s bibs and feeding clothes extra clean.
- – Avoid touching your baby’s acne, and clean it with cotton swabs only.
5| Diaper rash
Newborn babies have sensitive skin. It is completely normal for their skin to get a little irritated from their diapers. Diaper rash is one of the most common challenges every mum faces during the first year of their baby’s life. The best way to treat a diaper rash is to get a good diaper cream. You can read about the best ones here.
6| Fever
All babies experience a fever at some point or another during the first year. To treat a fever, you have to know what is causing it. It can be a flu, a virus, or a reaction for a vaccine. Check in with your doctor to know and start a good and reliable treatment plan.
You can find everything you want to know about newborn babies’ fever here.
7| A thrush
Some mums don’t realize how important it is to clean their newborn’s gums and tongue. This is one of the reasons why babies might experience it. A thrush is an oral and fungal infection. Usually, it is a minor problem that can be treated easily.
You can simply avoid it by maintaining good oral hygiene routines. Even if your baby has no teeth yet, oral hygiene is just as important.
8| Ear infection
An infant ear infection is as common of an illness as the rest. Especially during the first year. In addition, it is usually accompanied by a runny nose, ear pains, and a throat infection. Make sure to daily clean your newborn baby’s ears well. This should be a part of their daily routine. If you feel your baby is experiencing an allergic reaction, you should consult your doctor.
9| Diarrhea
Infant diarrhea is caused by another illness such as a cold or allergies. Allergies even have a bigger effect during autumn and spring due to weather changing. Experts recommend consulting a doctor if diarrhea is accompanied by a cough. Usually, doctors will recommend a good cough syrup or certain herbs to soothe your baby’s coughing.
10| Dehydration
Lastly, dehydration is another common newborn health problem your baby might experience. If your baby has a fever, diarrhea, or vomit, then they are losing fluids. Therefore, you need to make up for lost fluids and hydrate your baby with water and liquids. Hydration is very important for newborn health. If you feel the dehydration is out of hand, you must see your pediatrician.
