Common Illnesses in newborns and infants

Newborns' and babies' immunity

Before you worry about your newborn or infant from diseases, rest assured that the immunity of this little one who seems helpless is much stronger than you think. Recent studies conducted after the Coronavirus epidemic have shown that although the immune system in infants is still developing and growing, infant immunity may be superior to that of adults.

A breastfed child receives anti bodies found in breast milk that protect him from many diseases and infections and help the body fight various infections. Therefore, infants often recover without the need for antibiotics.

Common illnesses in newborns and infants

1| The common cold

Your baby may show symptoms such as nasal congestion, watery eyes, sneezing, and coughing. Newborns and infants may catch a cold from someone around them; in most cases, it is not a cause for concern. You must clean your little one's nose so he can breathe easily and breastfeed him when needed because the milk will prevent dehydration. Also, breast milk contains the antibodies that your little one needs to fight diseases.

2| Fever

Suppose the baby's temperature rises to 37.5 degrees or more Celsius. In that case, he can be diagnosed with a fever, and the infant's temperature may reach 40 degrees Celsius if he has a viral infection. In this case, a doctor should be consulted immediately, especially if the child is under three months old—more about fever in infants and children in this article.

3| Cough

Do not panic when you hear your newborn's first cough, as coughing does not always indicate illness. The baby may cough to clear his respiratory tract of mucus or dust. However, if the cough is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or vomiting, you should take him to the pediatrician.

4| Bronchiolitis

It is an inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, causing wheezing, rapid breathing, and difficulty breathing. If you notice these symptoms in your child, see a pediatrician immediately.

5| Constipation and diarrhea

Conditions that rarely affect newborns who are exclusively breastfed. However, if your child's stool is liquid or hard, see a pediatrician to examine your child and prescribe the necessary treatment.

6| Colic

Colic is one of the most common conditions that affect infants, and its most essential symptoms are constant crying, leg movement while crying, and clenching of the fists. Infants may suffer from colic due to swallowing air, especially when bottle-feeding, or due to milk allergy. You can read more about infant colic from this article.

7| Vomiting

It is usual for a baby to spit up some milk, especially immediately after feeding. However, if the vomiting is extensive and occurs several times, the baby may have an infection and should be examined by a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.

8| Heat rash

Due to the heat, small red bumps may appear on the baby's forehead, face, and skin folds of the neck, chest, and arms. So, if you notice this type of rash, ensure your baby wears light clothing, and the room temperature is moderate. You can use a fan or air conditioner to reach a comfortable temperature. Such a rash usually goes away without medical intervention.

9| Diaper rash

Diaper rash is a common problem among newborns and babies, where the diaper area becomes infected, and a red rash appears due to urine and feces. It can be overcome by changing the diaper several times and using a barrier or cream that treats the rash. Diaper rash may be caused by fungi in red or pink bumps. This type of fungus is usually treated with a special ointment.

10| Ear infection

Ear infections are caused by a buildup of fluid in the middle ear, which causes eardrum inflammation. A respiratory virus infection usually precedes this. These infections affect children, especially infants, more than adults because the tubes that drain fluid from the ear are smaller. A lot of crying usually accompanies ear infections in infants due to pain, fluid coming out of the ear, and a high temperature. You should see a doctor when these symptoms appear to confirm the presence of an infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

11| Hand, foot, and mouth disease

This disease is caused by a viral infection common in summer and fall. It causes mouth ulcers and a rash on the palms and feet. The rash may spread to different parts of the body. Give the baby enough milk, as dehydration is the most common complication of the disease.

To sum up,

Diseases, viruses, and bacteria are all around us everywhere. No matter how careful you are about your baby's health and safety, they may contract one of the common diseases that affect other newborns and infants. So don't worry; all you have to do is breastfeed your baby, maintain basic hygiene, and consult a pediatrician if any symptoms appear or if you have any questions or concerns.