Newborns Babies Archives - Healthhype

Low Breast Milk Supply

Dr. Chris — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:51:17 +0000

New mothers are often concerned about their breast milk supply. A common fear is that breast milk production will be insufficient to meet with a newborn’s nutritional needs. In most cases, a mother’s breast milk supply will be adequate and will not hamper the baby’s growth. However many nursing mothers do experience a low breast milk supply, due to hormonal and/or physiological factors. For mothers who are keen on breastfeeding, simple measures such as proper feeding techniques and good nutrition may be sufficient. Similarly, many mothers become obsessive about their breast milk supply. A perceived lack of breast milk causes great stress and anxiety for mothers wishing to breastfeed. If a baby is gaining weight in accordance with the baby’s growth chart, is active, appears healthy and able to feed frequently, then the breast milk supply is likely to be adequate. Breast Anatomy and Physiology of Breast Milk Production Breasts are underdeveloped at birth and start to grow in size during puberty as a result of hormonal stimulation. Pregnancy and lactation cause further growth in breast size but the size of the breast is not related to the amount of milk production. During pregnancy the breasts enlarge and the glandular [...]

The post Low Breast Milk Supply appeared first on Healthhype.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) – Alcohol and the Unborn Baby

Dr. Chris — Fri, 27 May 2011 00:05:13 +0000

What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome? Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is not a single disease but a range of disorders which include numerous physical and mental problems, as well as various developmental defects, that may occur as a result of alcohol consumption by the mother while pregnant. No amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy since alcohol passes easily through the placenta to reach the fetus, where it may also affect the fetal brain. Consuming even a small amount of alcohol carries the potential danger of irreversible birth defects in the baby. However, the risk may be lower with occasional drinking than with regular heavy drinking. The whole spectrum of disorders associated with alcohol use and its effect on the unborn baby is known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), which may range from mild learning disorders to severe birth defects. Fetal alcohol syndrome is the extreme form of FASD and may include features such as facial abnormalities, small head (microcephaly), growth disorders, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. FAS is the leading known cause of mental retardation. Other Terms for Alcohol Related Symptoms in Babies Other terms that may be used to describe related symptoms are : Fetal alcohol effects [...]

The post Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) – Alcohol and the Unborn Baby appeared first on Healthhype.

Ways to Prevent Diaper Rash in Babies

Dr. Chris — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 23:28:07 +0000

Many mothers panic when they discover that their newborn has a rash on the bottom, genitals and upper thighs. But diaper rash is very common. It is not usually a serious skin disorder and often resolves on its own with a few simple measures. However, there are instances where untreated and severe diaper rash can have serious consequences. But this is largely preventable. Diaper rash is not a poor reflection on the part of the mother, nanny or caregiver. Even the most conscientious mother may be unable to prevent diaper rash entirely. However, there are several ways to reduce the chances of your baby developing diaper rash and to help it resolve as soon as possible. Why does diaper rash occur? Diaper rash is the most common skin rash in newborns. It affects as many as 1 out of 3 infants in the first 2 years of life but less than 10% of cases are reported to a medical practitioner. There are several reasons why diaper rash occurs, many of which are preventable. Skin irritation caused by exposure to stool and feces. Short term exposure does not usually cause any significant skin irritation. Reaction to diapers, disposable wipes and fabric [...]

The post Ways to Prevent Diaper Rash in Babies appeared first on Healthhype.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Pictures, Treatment (Face, Scalp, Newborns)

Dr. Chris — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:28:19 +0000

What is seborrheic dermatitis? Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that tends to occur on the oily areas of the body, most noticeably on the face, scalp and chest. The rash usually appears as scaly skin with greasiness and yellow crusting that flakes off to reveal underlying redness and a flat or slightly raised plaque. Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition that occurs for unknown reasons. There seems to be a link with abnormal immune responses and a certain type of yeast (fungus) that normally dwells on human skin. When it occurs on the scalp, it is commonly referred to as dandruff. However, the term dandruff may also be used to describe similar scalp conditions that differs in the disease mechanism and appearance to some extent. Seborrheic dermatitis can also affect newborn babies and the scalp presentation is usually referred to as cradle cap. It may also cause severe diaper rash. Meaning of Seborrheic Dermatitis The term seborrheic dermatitis means inflamed skin (dermatitis) with excessive sebum or skin oil (seborrhea). However, the sebum production may not always be excessive. The sebaceous glands produce an oily substance known as sebum. Some areas of the body have more sebum than others, [...]

The post Seborrheic Dermatitis Pictures, Treatment (Face, Scalp, Newborns) appeared first on Healthhype.

8 Newborn Baby Care Tips For First Time Parents

Dr. Chris — Tue, 20 Aug 2013 21:16:31 +0000

Caring for a newborn baby can be daunting for any parent. It is generally more difficult for first time parents despite the advice and assistance of others. However, in most instances it is a matter of common sense and a few simple measures that most people know even if they are not parents. The first few weeks of life is the most delicate and while parents may have the child’s best interests at heart, conflicting advice and uncertainty can lead to incorrect decisions. Here are 8 simple tips on some of the most common points of concern for first time parents. Breastfeed Or Bottle-Feed Breast Milk One of the most important considerations is your newborn’s nutrition. There is no longer any confusion as to which is better between breast milk and baby formula. The composition of breast milk is the best nutritional option for babies – human breast milk, not cow’s milk. It may not always be possible to breastfeed your baby especially if you are a working mother. However, this does not mean that you baby has to lose out on the benefits of breast milk. Instead you can express breast milk with a manual or electric breast pump. [...]

The post 8 Newborn Baby Care Tips For First Time Parents appeared first on Healthhype.

Baby Eczema (Infants, Newborns) – Causes, Symptoms, Pictures

Dr. Chris — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 23:47:18 +0000

Eczema in babies is relatively common in Western nations, affecting 1 in 10 infants. It can be particularly frustrating for parents when it occurs in newborns. In addition to a crying baby who cannot effectively communicate their needs, colic and other newborn quirks, the eczema can make caring and calming a baby a very difficult task. Fortunately many children outgrow eczema. It can be effectively managed even in the early months of life. With a combination of education about eczema and the treatment from a paediatrician or dermatologist who is well versed with infantile eczema, the condition may not necessarily be as troublesome for both baby and parents. What is infantile eczema? Eczema simply refers to any skin condition but particularly atopic dermatitis. Infantile eczema therefore primarily refers to atopic dermatitis in babies. It occurs within the first 5 years of life but can occur as early as two months of age. It should not be confused with seborrheic dermatitis in infants which is also known as cradle cap and can also contribute to persistent nappy rash. Contrary to popular belief, eczema is not always an allergy issue solely. However, atopy is associated with other allergic conditions like allergic asthma [...]

The post Baby Eczema (Infants, Newborns) – Causes, Symptoms, Pictures appeared first on Healthhype.

Macrosomia (Big Baby Syndrome)

Dr. Chris — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 21:25:23 +0000

Macrosomia Definition Macrosomia is the medical term for a baby that has a significantly higher birth weight than the average for newborns. The term is also known by the common term big baby syndrome. The other common term that overlaps with macrosomia is large for gestational age. Macrosomia is usually defined as a birth weight of more than 8 pounds 13 ounces (4 kilograms). It may also be defined by the gestational age which in turn is influenced partly by the gender of the newborn and ethnicity. Since male newborn babies are typically larger and heavier than females, macrosomia is more likely in male newborns. Overall, macrosomic babies are significantly larger compared to average infants. Macrosomia Dangers Macrosomia is dangerous for both the baby and the mother. It increases the risk of birth trauma during a vaginal delivery. The risk is greater if the birth weight reaches 9 pounds 15 ounces. There is also a greater chance of a difficult labor and stillbirth. Cesarean delivery is strongly recommended in cases of macrosomia. Macrosomia also increases the risk of health problems (diabetes mellitus) in babies after birth. Macrosomia Incidence Macrosomia is reported in 1 to 10% of babies born worldwide. Apart [...]

The post Macrosomia (Big Baby Syndrome) appeared first on Healthhype.

Newborn Breathing Problems (Birth Asphyxia) Neonatal

Dr. Chris — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:19:26 +0000

A major concern for many parents as the mother approaches full term is the complications that may arise after delivery, particularly breathing problems that may affect the newborn. At birth, the focus of the attending physician is to assure healthy and spontaneous breathing of the newborn as any impediment may result in damage to the brain tissue or even death. However in certain cases, problems with adequate ventilation may arise, especially in high risk pregnancies. What is Asphyxia Neonatorum? Asphyxia is the lack of oxygen (hypoxia) or increase in carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) within the body due to problems with breathing. Asphyxia neonatorum (sometimes referred to as birth asphyxia) is the hypoxia and/or hypercapnia that occurs in newborns. This may be categorized into perinatal asphyxia or neonatal asphyxia. The chances of asphyxia neonatorum is significantly higher in high risk pregnancies, premature births, multiple births (twins, triplets or more), severe maternal bleeding or toxemia. Perinatal Asphyxia Perinatal asphyxia or fetal asphyxia is the asphyxia that results in the baby before or during labor. A rapid delivery is essential to secure the airways and ensure spontaneous breathing is possible. Perinatal asphyxia may occur as a result of : Umbilical cord compression Abruptio placentae [...]

The post Newborn Breathing Problems (Birth Asphyxia) Neonatal appeared first on Healthhype.

What Causes Blocked Nose in a Baby and Small Child?

Jan Modric — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:53:53 +0000

1. Nasal Congestion A common cause of blocked nose in a baby is an infection or allergy resulting in nasal congestion with purulent or watery discharge. 2. Enlarged Adenoid Glands Adenoid glands (pharyngeal tonsils) are located in the roof of the throat, behind the nose. They usually start to shrink after about age 5 and usually disappear until teenage years. Enlarged adenoid glands (adenoids) can be present from birth or can become temporary enlarged during an infection (adenoiditis), especially in early childhood. Symptoms are breathing through the mouth, snoring, difficult swallowing and throaty voice. When there is no infection, there is also no nasal discharge. A common complications are sinusitis and infection of the middle ear. If problems are constant, adenoids should be surgically removed (adenoidectomy). Sometimes adenoids are enlarged from no obvious reason and often shrink without treatment so pediatrician should be consulted about removal. 3. Inborn Defects of Nasal Cavity Deviated septum, cleft lip with cleft palate and other inborn errors may block the nose partially or completely. Surgical correction of cleft lip is usually performed between 3 and 6 months, and cleft palate between 12 and 14 months (1). 4. Cystic Fibrosis Cystic fibrosis (mucoviscidosis) is a genetic disorders of mucus affecting sweat and mucous glands resulting in production of [...]

The post What Causes Blocked Nose in a Baby and Small Child? appeared first on Healthhype.

Newborn Crying Baby

Dr. Chris — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 20:49:32 +0000

Upon coming out of the womb a newborn baby will cry and take the first breath. If this does not occur, the attending doctor will take the necessary steps to ensure that there is no airway obstruction and that the baby is breathing properly. From this point on, the baby learns that crying is a means of communicating with others. Taking care of a newborn baby may be stressful enough for a mother, especially if it is her first child, but a newborn baby who cries excessively may be very distressing. Interpreting the causes of crying in the newborn baby is an essential part of motherhood. It is normal for a healthy newborn baby to cry two to three hours in a day. Some babies cry more than others and some cry more at night. As the mother bonds with the baby, she gradually gets to know why her baby is crying, whether it is a need for a feed, attention for a diaper change or some other cause of distress for the baby. Causes of Crying in a Newborn Baby Often it is difficult to understand why a baby is crying and it may become a task to soothe [...]

The post Newborn Crying Baby appeared first on Healthhype.