Childbirth is equal parts stressful and exciting. As a parent, you can expect anxiety, increased heartbeats, and a feeling of uncertainty. After the baby is born, both of you will feel euphoric, but it won’t be long before you’re back to worrying about your child’s health.
Issues in newborns like jaundice, cerebral palsy due to lack of oxygen at birth, respiratory distress, and low birth weight are not uncommon, and most of the time, they are caused by the negligence of the staff at the hospital. Here are seven common health issues in newborns that you must know as an expecting parent.
Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition where the newborn’s skin and eyes turn yellow. It occurs when there is an excess of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when the red blood cells are broken down. Jaundice is more common in premature babies and babies born via C-section.
Jaundice is usually not a major concern and goes away within a week or two. However, in some cases, it can signify a more serious underlying condition such as liver disease or infection. If your baby’s jaundice does not improve or gets worse, you should seek medical attention immediately. Also, watch out for maternal birth injuries for the mother.
Lack of Oxygen at Birth
If the baby is not getting enough oxygen during delivery, it can lead to serious health problems. The most common symptom of this is cyanosis when the skin turns blue due to a lack of oxygen in the blood. Other symptoms include rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and low blood pressure. Lack of oxygen at birth can also cause brain damage, so make sure you identify the root cause of the problem. If it’s due to negligence by the medical staff, consider hiring a personal injury lawyer for compensation.
Respiratory Distress
Respiratory distress is a condition where the baby has difficulty breathing. It can be caused by several factors such as lung disease, infection, or airway blockage. Symptoms of respiratory distress include rapid breathing, grunting with each breath, and flaring of the nostrils. If your baby is experiencing any of these symptoms, do not take it lightly and get your baby checked by the doctor immediately.
Low Birth Weight
Low birth weight (LBW) is when a baby weighs less than 5.5 pounds (2.5 kilograms). Most babies who are born early or have a low birth weight do well. But some may have long-term health problems, such as developmental delays or cerebral palsy.
Congenital Disabilities
Congenital disabilities occur when the baby is developing in the womb. Such disabilities can cause the baby to be born with physical or mental disabilities. Some common congenital disabilities include heart defects, cleft lip or palate, and spina bifida. Most congenital disabilities can be treated, but some may require lifelong care.
Infections
Infections are one of the most common health issues in newborns. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Some common infections in newborns include sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia. If your baby shows symptoms of an infection, such as fever, lethargy, or irritability, take them to the doctor immediately.
Hyperbilirubinemia
Hyperbilirubinemia is a condition where there is an excess of bilirubin in the blood. It can be caused by jaundice, blood disorders, or liver disease. Symptoms of hyperbilirubinemia include yellowing of the skin and eyes, fatigue, and dark urine. If your baby is displaying these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Final Word
Parenthood is a wonderful journey but comes with its fair share of challenges. As an expecting parent, it’s important to be aware of the common health issues affecting your newborn. This way, you can be prepared and know what to do if your baby ever experiences any of these problems.
