As a new parent, it can be worth knowing about some of the common health issues that affect babies. While some of these health issues may seem alarming, they’re usually fairly harmless and can be easily treated. Below are just some of the common health issues to expect in the first year of your baby’s life.
Jaundice
Many newborn babies are born with yellowish eyes and skin. This condition is known as jaundice. A lot of parents are naturally concerned by this – after all jaundice is usually a sign of liver failure in adults. However, it is rarely ever worth worrying about in newborn babies and is simply due to your baby’s liver having to break down large amounts of red blood cells as it learns to breathe after birth.
When should you worry about jaundice?: The yellow discoloration should gradually disappear within two weeks. If the discoloration remains the same beyond two weeks or gets worse, you should see a doctor.
Vomiting
It’s normal for babies to sometimes puke during feeds. This is often caused by reflux and can be reduced by physically helping babies to burp. More forceful vomiting may be the result of a stomach bug. In these cases, your baby may also have a fever. Most stomach bugs pass within a day or two.
When should you worry about vomiting?: You should worry about vomiting if it goes for any more than two days. It’s important that your baby is getting some food down – you should see a doctor if your baby is unable to keep food or liquid down in order to prevent dehydration.
Dry skin/rashes
Despite newborns being known for their smooth skin, newborn dry skin is very common. Many babies develop a condition called cradle cap, which results in dry skin and scaly patches on the head. Cradle cap usually goes away on its own, although shampoos and oils may be able to loosen up dead skin faster. Meanwhile, conditions such as diaper rash are very common if a baby has sat too long in a dirty diaper, while heat rash can also occur. Such rashes can usually be easily cleared up with special creams.
When should you worry about dry skin/rashes?: If your baby is developing multiple patches of dry skin around their body, you may want to see a doctor. Constant rashes and hives are also worth seeing a doctor for – especially if they’re preventing your baby from settling.
Colic
Long periods of unexplained crying are referred to as colic. It’s a mystery as to why some babies cry for such long periods. Possible reasons suggested by researchers include gas, cramps from growth and migraines. While unpleasant for you and the baby, colic is something that your baby should eventually grow out of.
When should you worry about colic?: If you are concerned that the crying may be due to a health problem, you should see a doctor. You should be particularly concerned if crying is preventing your child from wanting to feed.
Oral thrush
If your baby’s tongue or mouth has white patches on it, it could be a sign that they have oral thrush. This is a fungal infection that many babies develop. Oral thrush is easily treatable with antifungal medicines that you may be able to buy over the counter at your local pharmacy.
When should you worry about oral thrush?: If your baby’s thrush symptoms don’t seem to go away after two weeks, you may want to see a doctor about prescription medication. It’s possible in these cases that it may not even be oral thrush that your baby has but something else.
Ear infections
Ear infections are common in babies. You can usually spot if your baby has an ear infection – your baby is likely to try to tug or rub its ear. Ear infections may also be accompanied by a runny nose, coughing or a temperature.
When should you worry about ear infections?: Ear infections are worth seeing a doctor for so that you can get prescribed any necessary medication such as antibiotics. Strange discharge coming from your baby’s ear could also be a sign to see a doctor.
Diarrhea/constipation
Many babies also experience digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation. These could be caused by a stomach bug or by consuming a food which they have an intolerance for. In most cases such health issues are nothing to worry about – diarrhea or constipation should pass.
When should you worry about diarrhea/constipation?: You should only worry about diarrhea or constipation if it is constant. If your baby is having physical pain while doing a poo or there is blood in their stool, you should consider seeing a doctor immediately.
