New parents may be alarmed at minor issues related to their newborn baby. For the first few weeks, months, and years, parents will likely be concerned about all kinds of rashes, coughs, and bowel movements. From teething to colic, your newborn may show concerning signs or symptoms. If this occurs, your first instinct may be to contact the doctor. However, many seemingly random health concerns develop during the first few months of a baby’s life. Understanding if the health issue is serious or a normal part of the early stages of development is important.
Thankfully, there is plenty of information about appropriate pediatric care. Although each infant or newborn may have unique symptoms or health concerns, many issues are common and considered to be normal.
The Basics of a Newborn’s Health
During the first couple of weeks after birth, some physical conditions and health issues are very common. Some health concerns are normal and can be taken care of with the help of the child’s parents or caregivers. If the health problem is abnormal, parents should notify doctors right away. Although childhood can be a worrisome time for parents, working with an experienced pediatric doctor can alleviate some of the stress.
A newborn’s health involves a range of care options. Types of care include following health plans, treating illness or disease, and performing screenings to ensure children receive the best care possible. Since a child’s early years are highly formative to their health, even minor symptoms may warrant a visit to see a specialist.
Aspects of a Newborn’s Health
According to the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, new parents often have questions about their infant’s health and well-being.
Some of the primary aspects of a newborn’s health consist of:
- Colic – Infants with colic are fussy in the evenings, may cry inconsolably, pass gas, and have enlarged stomachs. Colic improves or disappears by the age of 3 or 4.
- Jaundice – This can cause an infant’s eyes, mouth, and skin to turn a yellowish color. Although jaundice is common, some cases of high levels of bilirubin can cause brain injury; therefore, all babies with jaundice should be seen by a doctor.
- Diaper rash – A rash on the skin where the diaper is located is common. This type of rash is typically caused by skin irritation from contact with urine and stool.
- Care of the umbilicus – To properly care for the infant’s umbilicus, keep the area clean with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol or use baby wipes.
- Spitting up or vomiting – Spitting up is common, but can lead to issues if the baby is not gaining weight, has blood in the stool, spits up green or yellow liquid, or shows other signs of sickness such as diarrhea.
- Teething – As teeth develop and break through the gums, infants become sleepless, fussy, and irritable. Additionally, they can lose their appetite. If a fever is present, contact a doctor.
- Bowel movements – Signs to look for when a baby has a bowel movement are any sign of diarrhea, frequency of urine output, or watery stools. Changes in color, consistency, and frequency can be a sign of a health concern.
- Urination – If urinating seems painful for the infant or if blood is seen in the urine, contact a doctor.
If your child experiences any of the above, consider seeking out a specialist to determine if the aspect of your baby’s health is normal or unusual.
Health Issues Related to Newborn Care
To make certain you have taken as many precautions as possible, consider verifying your infant is correctly and safely receiving types of care such as:
- Proper feeding
- Car safety
- Immunizations
- Dental health
- Newborn screening
- Sleeping
If your child has concerns you’re worried about, reach out to a professional for treatment.
Find Treatment
At West Texas Health, we offer pediatric specialists. Our experts can monitor your child’s symptoms to address behavioral issues, chronic illnesses, infections, or digestive disorders. Additionally, we focus on skin conditions and potential developmental issues.
Consider our health care center today. Contact us to learn more about our treatment options and when to see a specialist
