If you’re pregnant, you should do extensive research on what to expect in the months leading up to and following delivery. This way, you can better prepare for any unexpected occurrences. Learning about some common problems and diseases in newborns can be useful. By being aware of them ahead of time, you can distinguish between conditions that aren’t serious and those that are.
Abdominal Distension
Shortly after giving birth, you may notice that your baby has a bloated and firm stomach and question whether this is a cause for concern. This abdominal distension can occur because your newborn has swallowed a lot of air or because they are experiencing constipation. Usually, you don’t need to worry when you observe a swollen belly, as it can take some time for their digestive system to start to function normally. Once they begin to feed regularly, their stomach should return to a natural state. Keep an eye out for continued distension and blue coloration in their skin around the area. This can indicate deep-seated issues with organs.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are another common problem in newborns. They may develop when fluid that contains either viruses or bacteria builds up inside an infant’s ears. Signs that your baby may have an ear infection include behaviors like pulling at the ears, unusually frequent crying, and general fretfulness. If you suspect an ear infection, tell your doctor immediately. Viruses don’t cause too much trouble and your baby should be able to fend them off in a period of a few days. However, bacterial infections can result in long-term hearing loss. Your doctor will give antibiotics if they find that bacteria are at the root of the problem.
Hemolytic Disease
Hemolytic disease describes an ailment in some children where certain antibodies break down red blood cells at a faster rate than they should. It’s standard for doctors to take blood from your baby or the umbilical cord right after delivery to send for hemolytic disease testing in a laboratory. This test is called a Direct Antibody Test (DAT) and it will determine whether the lab finds antibodies attached to red blood cells, as well as the quantity of those antibodies. A positive DAT indicates hemolytic disease. It can also point to other blood-related complications.
