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Summer Essentials to Keep Your Little One Comfortable in the Heat
Remember when summer was about relaxing, going for a beach vacation and having fun? Now as a parent, summertime probably has you worrying about what your baby should wear, how to keep him cool, or how to make him more comfortable as the days get warmer.
This list will help you address some common concerns you might have in summers.
1. Summer Wear
There’s nothing cuter than a baby with big sunglasses and a summer hat, right? Dig in to our summer wear collection to find outfits that will make your little one stand out, and also stay cool and comfortable in the summer sun!
2. Baby Powder
All that sweat troubling your little one can easily be absorbed by a powder that is specially formulated for babies. Be sure to check the labels so that the powder you choose is talc-free and perfect for sensitive baby skin!
3. Baby Lotion
We know summer can get sweaty and your little one can go through a great deal of discomfort, but baby skin tends to dry out; more so in summers. If you’re looking for a baby lotion that is light, non-sticky and perfect for summer, then look no more!
4. Body Wash & Shampoo
Bath-time becomes the 'best time' in summer! The cool water and all the fun splashing around can really refresh and rejuvenate your baby on hot days. Find the best shampoo and body wash combination that cleanses your baby’s skin while also locking in moisture post- bath.
5. Diapers
Diapers are really a blessing, considering that a baby poops and pees several times a day. But come summer and diapers can suddenly seem like an extra layer you don’t want on your baby. However, if you find a diaper that is feather-soft and light, your little one will remain comfortable and dry all day!
6. Diaper Rash Cream
Diaper rash forms when there is excess moisture sitting around in your baby’s diaper area. Summers are when your baby is more prone to these rashes, courtesy sweat! A good diaper rash cream will ensure that no irritants form in the folds of your baby's skin, keeping the area rash-free! A diaper rash cream can also hasten the process of healing existing diaper rash. All in all, buying a diaper rash cream will ensure that your little one breezes through summer with no redness and irritation.
7. Baby Wipes
Summer travel on the cards? Baby wipes will work as a saviour whether it is spit-up you need to wipe or sudden diaper changes that need to happen on-the-go. In fact, they even double up as convenient facial wipes, if needed!
8. Massage Oil
Why does your baby need a massage oil in summer? We’ll tell you why! Baby skin loses moisture very rapidly, especially in the first few months of their lives. Summers leave their skin even more parched, and in desperate need of moisture. A soft, gentle baby massage oil pre or post bath-time can help lock in moisture without leaving your baby’s skin sticky(and icky!).
Also Read:
Effective Tips for Dressing Up Your Baby in Summer
Baby Care Tips in Summer
Summer Fashion Essentials for Your Little Sunshine! Read more
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Your 9 Months Old Baby Growth and Development
A quarter short of completing a year of their life, your baby at nine months is at the most exciting growth stage. At nine months your baby is surely crawling its way to every nook and corner of the house, probably even trying to stand using support, occasionally babbling or even calling you “Mama or Dada” for the first time. An adorable phase, there are several key developments at this age which indicate healthy growth There are several physical, social, emotional and mental indicators that characterise this stage of the child’s development.
Growth of the Baby
A delightful age, where everything they do is funny and entertaining, you can see your little one growing into a mimic, comedian or performer of a kind. Your baby’s comprehending skills are improving, and he or she will be more sophisticated in their natural ways. Your baby can put away toys, dismantle them, be more aware of your misses when playing games and even raise objections to specific actions that are not within their routine
Baby Development
Be prepared to hear a lot of babbling from your baby as he or she gets closer to mouthing meaningful words. The first words that you eagerly expect - “Mama or Dada” could come out of their mouth and they may well know what it means. If your baby is an early talker, they may be using a few words already. Your baby will be using body language and noises to communicate and get your attention.
Your baby has learnt emotions especially caution and fear. These will be rampant when they are around a new atmosphere or with strangers. They enjoy playing with educative toys or seeing pictures in a book and like to listen to conversations with different sounds and noises. They enjoy the occasional game of peekaboo or even finding hidden toys, and they are crawling and propelling themselves in all directions.
Some babies can stand up with support by holding a piece of furniture or your hand. In some cases, babies tend to start walking with support or even without any support. Babies at this stage also start becoming independent and try and hold things with their thumb and index finger. They may poke things with their index finger. Some babies try and hold their own cup, the bottle or even a spoon while eating. They become more vociferous and gesticulate to express something.
36 Week Old Baby Development
Separation pangs
Remember, now, and for the coming weeks, there will be anxiety involved when you separate from your baby. Your baby has got accustomed to you and fear of anyone else is absolutely normal. Babies may be apprehensive of strangers or even grandparents and care providers. The transition can be made easy by adopting a slow approach and let the baby make the first move.
Travel Woes
Your baby is now at a stage where they have comfortably settled in their own surroundings and love the confines of their space. It could be your own home, the nursery or daycare. So, if you intend on travelling or undertaking a journey, make sure you are prepared for some unexpected behaviour. Your baby likes to see the familiar faces, predictable surroundings around him as it has now become routine. Visiting a new place or a stranger could upturn their sense of security and make them restless.
37 Week Old Baby Development
By week 37, your baby will start remembering and registering information in her tiny brain. He or she can recollect where their toys are located around the house and also mimic actions seen about a week ago. These skills exhibit their recalling skills- the ability to remember details of any experience specific to something for a short period. A conscious memory of specific events is not likely to develop until the two or three years of age when they start speaking.
38 Week Old Baby Development
The barrage of words that your baby has heard since birth is now beginning to weave its magic. The understanding of these words is definitely out there, loud and clear, but the ability to use the words is far more restricted. The constant jabbering of words will not start to sound like real words, sentences or even phrases. Your baby is blabbering something in a manner of trying to convey a message. Don’t look quizzical and respond to it to encourage speech. Your baby will also follow the tone of your voice than your actual words. Babies can understand the emotions that underline your tone and also relate to your expressions. Communicate more to improve their ability to speak sooner.
39 Week Old Baby Development
You baby’s personality is budding. Broad smiles, actions and gesticulations at everyone they meet, sometimes coy and shy when around strangers are quite common traits at this stage. Your baby may now take charge boldly or gauge a situation carefully before bonding with others. You may come across those occasional mood swings, or dramatic behaviour is owing to temperamental changes.
Baby's Health
Your 9-month old is not due for any shots or immunizations. You will need to prepare for a routine doctor’s visit when your baby is around 12 months old. However, babies at this age are prone to ear infections. If your baby has had several instances of ear-ache, it is best to discuss a long-term solution for the problem with your doctor.
If your baby is bottle-fed, you can stop sterilizing the bottles if you feel confident. However, remember to wash them thoroughly with hot, soapy water and rinse them well.
Baby Milestones - 9 Months
The developmental milestones in your nine-month-old can be categorized into three categories – cognitive, physical, and social and emotional. Each category has a set of typical individual accomplishments and associated traits.
Cognitive Development:
This pertains to the mental prowess, analytical abilities and prudence of the baby which are displayed as below:
Mimicking gestures and sounds
Your baby’s cognitive ability will help to imitate gestures and sounds at nine months of age. A child can decipher when a parent asks him to make a sound or gesticulate.
Miming syllables
A baby would be able to repeat words formed with one or two syllables like Mama and Dada even though it may not be directed to the right person.
Understands the importance of “No.”
Your baby will understand that “No” is a negative instruction and understands the purpose of the command. The child will avoid doing anything that will evoke a negative response from parents.
Pointing
Your baby will point towards objects, people or direction to display their interest.
Locating things
Babies have a distinct cognitive ability to locate a hidden object with their sharpened memory at this stage.
Physical changes:
Crawling, sitting and standing without support
By the ninth month, your baby will crawl effortlessly. An infant can even crawl and sit for a long period of time owing to stronger lower back muscles. The leg muscles are stronger and can support the weight of the body. Some babies can even stand up with support.
Grasping and holding objects
The index finger and the thumb can touch each other (pincer grasp), helping the baby to get a grip on objects to hold. They can use this grip to hold their spoon while eating.
Parachute reflex
The body automatically puts the hands forwards when the head faces down. It is the body’s own way of preventing a head injury during a fall.
Increase use of limbs
At nine months, babies use their arms and hands to pass or throw objects.
Sharp sight
Ocular muscles, which strengthen the eye movement help the baby to track moving objects.
Sleep pattern
Your baby might sleep less during the day and sleep for longer hours during the night.
Social and Emotional Development:
Your baby will now start developing social interacting skills, behaviour and emotional state of being too.
Comfortable around primary caretakers and familiar faces
Your baby will prefer to be with you or his caregiver and would cry if separated. They will enjoy physical contact and try as much to please you. Babies at nine months love to be around their known faces like grandparents, family friends who visit often.
Anxious around strangers
A baby panics and cries when amidst strangers and new faces. A baby will crawl towards a parent however friendly the stranger may be.
Preference for toys
Babies may prefer some toys to others as they like playing and exploring new things with them.
Each baby is unique, and all of these milestones may appear and develop at a different pace. There could be signs which indicate poor development and you could seek medical intervention.
Behaviour
This month will probably be characterised by high pitched squeals as your baby is developing their vocal chords. Babies differ, some are passive, some loud or some completely quiet. Observe your baby’s eyes keenly when there is a loud noise. Their eyes should move according to the decibel levels and focus on the object that is making the noise. Watch how they move their body very closely. It is the parents who are the first to notice any developmental issues or physical problems in their baby. Early medical intervention, even if the issue seems negligible could prove worthwhile later on.
A 9 Month-Old Baby's Activities
With increased flexibility in moving the body, babies can be encouraged to exert themselves physically. Try to engage them in activities to grab or pass things to move their limbs. Try and help them to stand for some time if they are capable of holding and standing up.
With improved sight, vision and cognitive skills babies can now pay more attention and understand things. Spend more time with them by reading, singing or just talking to them to stimulate communication and enhanced mental agility.
Babies start developing teeth at this stage, and you could offer them teethers filled with jelly. Anything sweet could be offered to soothe their aching gums.
With a strong pincer grasp, you could encourage your baby to pick up their spoon and eat. It may sound messy, but it is a great way to inculcate independence and also learn to hold objects.
9 Month Old Baby Care
A few simple things to help to care for your nine-month-old baby:
Talk and engage your baby in conversations to help them decipher words.
Listen and respond keenly to their muffled babbling to encourage communication.
Schedule play time and play as many engaging games like peekaboo, making animal sounds, passing things to make your baby feel loved and secured.
Reading is a habit that opens a world to them. Read diligently to expand the horizons of their imagination and for better learning ability at a later stage.
Involve in physical activity to strengthen the muscles for walking and running.
Ensure your home is baby safe as your baby can now grab anything and pop it in their mouth.
Feeding
Let your child explore their food by trying to eat themselves. It does sound like a mess, but it helps them relate to how food is put in their mouth. Mealtime should not be controlled, but it should be a learning activity where the baby eventually becomes independent. Start by helping them pick up finger food like chopped fruits and vegetables in a variety of colours. Encourage them to use a spoon to feed themselves their pureed food even though it is messy.
Sleeping
At nine months, babies may reduce their hours of sleep and this transition could make them cranky and tired. Watch out for signs like itchy eyes, constant whining or any other cues. Do not let your baby get overtired and try not to stay awake too late. Lost sleep could be compensated at night. Establish a routine for everyone’s benefit.
Tips for Parents
With visible changes in their behaviour, parents must try to engage their infants of nine months in baby activities.
Infant development at 9 months must be tracked and monitored. Support your child in their endeavour to stand and walk rather than frighten them with your fears.
Your paediatrician could give you the best feedback on your baby’s weight. Percentile or growth charts are a good way to track 9 month baby weight and see how your child is doing in terms of physical growth.
An exciting phase, at nine months your baby is moving into an adorable age where they will be learning to speak, walk, talk, run and much more. It is the ideal time to lay a strong foundation for their personality development.
Previous Month: 8 Months Old Baby Development
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Shoulder Dystocia During Childbirth
Shoulder dystocia is a rare condition that can sometimes be seen during delivery after the head of the foetus has emerged from the mother's body. The baby's shoulder (left or right) stays back behind the mother's pubic bone and results in pressure. Occasionally, the baby's posterior shoulder puts pressure on the mother's sacrum (large bone at the base of the spine). If either of these cases occurs, the rest of the baby’s body does not come out easily. This complication is termed Infant Shoulder Dystocia.
What is Shoulder Dystocia?
Shoulder Dystocia is defined as an obstetric complication which is associated with cephalic vaginal deliveries where the baby’s head enters the pelvis first. It happens only when the baby’s shoulders get stuck after the head emerges from the mother's vagina. Infant shoulder dystocia happens when one or both the shoulders are placed in a direction opposite to the maternal pelvis bones.
Causes of Shoulder Dystocia
Macrosomia: It is a condition in which the newborn baby has excessive birth weight. Babies with more weight than general cases tend to have a heavy body which can make vaginal delivery difficult.
Abnormal Pelvic Anatomy: There are chances that a small pelvis would result in the baby getting stuck.
Gestational Diabetes: This increases the chances of the baby putting on weight on the torso, which may come in the way of a smooth passage through the birth canal
Post-dated Pregnancy: Prolonged stay of the baby in a mother’s womb tends to the increased overall growth of the baby leading to difficult vaginal delivery.
Assisted vaginal delivery utilising Forceps or Vacuum: This may result in a brachial plexus injury to the infant. These are the bundle of nerves which connect the spine to the shoulder, arm and hand
Labour Abnormalities: Delayed dynamic period of first stage labour when the cervix dilates to about 8 cm, and prolonged second stage labour, can also cause brachial plexus injury. Having induced labour can also increase the risk of this condition
Oxytocin and Anaesthesia: While there is no data to establish a correlation between the use of oxytocin and anaesthesia to shoulder dystocia, there is an indirect connection which is seen as a risk factor. Oxytoxin is used for macrosomic babies, and, as mentioned above, large babies are more prone to the condition
Shoulder Dystocia signs and symptoms
Mothers can experience symptoms ranging from bruising of the bladder, rectum, vagina, or cervix, or even haemorrhaging.
The baby faces difficulties in emerging with normal traction and may require the mother to give extra pressure to push the remaining part of the body out.
Turtle Sign in Shoulder Dystocia: A major complication and a major sign faced during shoulder dystocia is when the foetal head suddenly retracts against the mother’s perineum after emerging out of the vagina. This leads to bulged cheeks of the infant. This occurs because the shoulder of the infant is not able to emerge from the mother’s pelvic cavity with the pressure developed inside. The condition is so named as it resembles a turtle putting its head back into the shell.
Diagnosis
No anticipation or predictions can be made before the birth of the possibility of shoulder dystocia occurring. The helpers need to make a quick diagnosis of this condition and react instantly.
Shoulder Dystocia Complications
This condition causes severe complications in both the mother and the infant, ranging from:
Mother:
Postpartum haemorrhage which is excessive bleeding within 24 hours of childbirth
Cervicovaginal lacerations which are tears in the cervix and vagina during labour and delivery
Rectovaginal fistula where a connection opens up between the lower part of the large intestine and the vagina which may cause stool and gas to pass into it
Lacerations of the rectum which are cuts in the anal tissue
Symphyseal separation or diathesis, which is an abnormally large gap between the pubic bones after delivery
Third- or a fourth-degree episiotomy where the laceration extends into the muscle that surrounds the anus or uterine wall rupture
Bladder atony which is the inability to control the bladder function
Infant:
Brachial plexus palsy (Erb’s palsy) which is the loss of function of the shoulder and arm because of damage to the nerves that link them to the spine
Broken collarbone (clavicular fracture)
Foetal death
Foetal hypoxia (decreased oxygen supply) with or without permanent neurologic damage
Wounds, which are bruises on the skin where the blood capillaries have ruptured
Humeral fracture, which is a broken bone in the upper arm
Who Is at Risk for Shoulder Dystocia?
Some of the common shoulder dystocia risk factors include:
Maternal obesity and age over 38 years
Excessive prenatal weight gain
Maternal diabetes
Protracted labour which is slow progress of labour when the cervix does not dilate at the expected speed or the baby does not descend as expected
Foetal macrosomia or large baby
Multiparous women; women who have given birth multiple times, or are carrying multiple babies
Previous history of shoulder dystocia
Short-statured women
How Is Shoulder Dystocia Treated and Managed?
A widely applicable treatment strategy followed by obstetricians can be understood by the Pneumonic "HELPERR":
H - Calling for help by physician
E - Evaluating episiotomy (small vaginal incision)
L - Legs (The doctor may ask the mother-to-be to pull her legs toward the stomach. This is also called the McRoberts manoeuvre)
P - Suprapubic pressure (The baby will be encouraged to rotate by putting pressure on a specific area of the pelvis)
E - Entering manoeuvers procedure (internal rotation) (This involves turning the baby’s shoulders in the womb to help the movement through the pelvis
R - Removal of posterior arm from birth canal (This involves freeing one arm from the birth canal)
R - Rolling of patient (The doctor may ask the mother-to-be to get down on all fours to help the movement of the baby)
Let’s understand the above treatment procedure in more detail.
Manoeuvers Used for Shoulder Dystocia:
McRoberts Manoeuver - In this procedure, the mother-to-be's hips are flexed, and her thighs are positioned up onto her abdomen. This is done with the help of nurses and family members present in the delivery room. This position flattens the mother’s sacral promontory (inward projecting part of the sacral vertebra) by increasing the angle of inclination between the symphysis pubis (joint between left and right pubic bones). This helps orient the symphysis pubis more horizontally to facilitate delivery.
Suprapubic pressure - This is an attempt to manually help in removing the infant shoulder from behind the symphysis pubis. It is usually performed by a helper who places a hand just above the mother’s pubic bone and pushes the posterior aspect of the infant’s shoulder in one direction or the other. Pushing the shoulder may turn the shoulder to an oblique angle which helps the delivery to be smooth and easy.
Delivery of the posterior arm - Here, the helper places his or her hand behind the posterior shoulder of the foetus and locates the arm. This arm is then swept across the foetal chest and delivered. This allows the foetus to drop into the birth canal, freeing the shoulder. With the posterior arm and shoulder now delivered, it is relatively easy to rotate the infant, dislodge the anterior shoulder, and complete the delivery of the baby.
Delivery of the posterior shoulder - Also called menticoglou, this involves putting a finger or soft catheter behind the posterior shoulder of the foetus to pull it downward. This enables the grasping of the posterior arm, allowing the infant to be delivered, followed by delivery of the trunk.
Secondary Manoeuver:
Wood's Screw manoeuver- In this procedure, the anterior shoulder is pressed toward the chest, and the posterior shoulder is pressed back to rotate the baby so that it faces backwards. This helps release the shoulder and deliver the baby.
Rubin manoeuvre - This procedure involves pushing on the posterior surface of the posterior shoulder (counterclockwise rotation) which helps in the flexing of shoulders across the chest. This decreases the distance between the shoulders so that the size of the baby is narrowed and fits fit through the pelvis.
Last Resort Techniques:
Deliberate fracture of the clavicle - Usually not preferred as it poses a major threat to vital organs such as vessels, lungs, etc. It is performed in a bid to save the mother's life, only if there is a miscarriage.
Gaskin All-fours manoeuver - This procedure involves placing the mother on her hands and knees with the back arched. This widens the pelvic outlet and facilitates delivery. This involves extended labour and is usually a hectic and cumbersome procedure leading to other maternal complications.
Posterior axilla sling traction(PAST) - This involves the delivery of the posterior foetal arm through an incision in the uterus. The hand which is freed is pulled through the vagina by another assistant.
General anaesthesia - Labour suppressing agents such as terbutaline, nitroglycerin, or uterine-relaxing general anaesthesia may be administered later on followed by Manoeuvers.
Zavanellimaneuver - This involves an emergency caesarean operation. Initially, the infant’s head is rotated to the occiput front position and then rotated by using constant firm pressure, simultaneously pushing the head back into the vagina. This is followed by a caesarean immediately. Tocolytic agents (medicines that suppress labour) such as terbutaline, nitroglycerin, or uterine-relaxing general anaesthesia may be administered to facilitate this process.
Abdominal surgery with an incision in the uterus - Here, general anaesthesia is usually followed by a caesarean incision. Later, the surgeon rotates the infant trans-abdominally through the hysterectomy incision (incision in the uterus), allowing the shoulders to rotate (similar to the Woods corkscrew manoeuver). The baby is then extracted through the vagina by another physician.
Transabdominal shoulder rotation ("Abdominal rescue") - An incision is made in the abdomen, to access and manually rotate the foetus's stuck shoulders until the foetus can complete a vaginal delivery.
Symphysiotomy - In this procedure, the cartilage of the pubic symphysis is surgically divided. This widens the pelvis and facilitates delivery. This procedure is used when all other options have been ruled out.
Are there any measures to prevent Shoulder Dystocia?
Here are a few ways to try and prevent the occurrence of shoulder dystocia
Tracking foetal positioning and encouraging the baby to settle in the right position
Performing exercises which flex and widen the pelvis
Choosing mid-wives or doctors who encourage undisturbed birth
Evaluating risk factors and proper management of risk factors in a mother can also help prevent maternal complications related to shoulder dystocia.
Recovery of Mother and Baby after Birth(Post-treatment Measures)
No special measures are required after the infant is born with a natural birth after shoulder dystocia. But if any chances of brachial plexus injury are noticed, it requires special monitoring in the neonatal section.
Another complication to watch out for is Erb's palsy which means a numb and paralysed arm. This usually gets better in hours or days, but if prolonged, the infant may have to undergo physiotherapy.
The mother may undergo severe trauma due to the physical damage that she underwent during delivery, especially severe haemorrhage. Other emotional agonies including shock, guilt, depression, or even anger.
Many efforts have been put in by obstetricians to foresee or prevent the condition of shoulder dystocia in an infant, such as using ultrasound and various other tests to predict macrosomic infants. Multiple strategies have also been proposed to reduce infant complications such as brachial plexus injury by performing prophylactic caesarean section. Many potential medical aids and medicines have also been applied to reduce the risk and to promote safe vaginal delivery.
The HELPERR manoeuver is widely established and performed to treat shoulder dystocia and associated complications. When all these techniques fail, last resort techniques are established to prevent foetal death. The internal rotation manoeuvers help in manipulating the foetus, to escape the slumped shoulders of the foetus, and incline the foetus at such an angle that promotes a smooth vaginal delivery.
Consequently, with time and by application of these modern methods, the foetal death rate has declined. However, the complete elimination of infant complications like brachial plexus injury, Erb's palsy, and other injuries is still tricky. Many researchers are conducting quality research initiatives to study preventive measures which can combat this problem and complications associated with it.
Also Read: Back Labour - Reasons, Symptoms & Treatment Read more
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Asthma in Babies
Asthma is one the most common breathing ailments, and it may affect babies and young children too. However, proper care and medical assistance can ensure a healthy lifestyle for your baby. We shall be discussing various causes and symptoms of asthma and different treatment options available for the same.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is the chronic inflammation of the airways due to heightened sensitivity to the inhaled allergens and irritants. In other words, asthma can be characterized as a medical condition in which the airways become swollen and hinder the airflow to the lungs. The body’s immune reaction resulting from various irritants and environmental pollutants (pollens, dust, tobacco smoke etc.) may cause asthma. Therefore, there is a strong link between asthma and allergies. It is often seen that people who suffer from asthma have hypersensitive airways and minor irritants or allergens may cause their respiratory tract to overreact.
Babies or infants have smaller airways in comparison to older children and adults. Small airways get easily blocked by viral infections, mucus, or tight airways, and may lead to breathing difficulties. Therefore, asthma in babies under 12 months of age can be an extremely difficult situation.
How Common Is it in Babies?
Asthma may affect 10 to 12 percent kids, and these figures are on the rise. Usually a child may have his first bout of asthma by around five years of age; however, it may not get diagnosed until later. Asthma has become one of the leading causes of chronic ailments in kids.
What Causes Asthma in Infants?
The exact cause of asthma is not known. However, it may happen due to either of the following:
Allergy-based Asthma
The cause of allergy-based asthma is the sensitive immune system. If a baby has allergy-based asthma, he might be sensitive to certain allergens. The triggers may vary from child to child. Some of the common triggers are pollens, dust mites, pet hair, or saliva.
Non-Allergic Asthma
Asthma may occur due to other reasons that may include the family history (genetic reasons) or respiratory infections.
What are the Symptoms of Infantile Asthma
New parents often wonder how will they come to know if their baby has asthma or not. The answer to this is to look for the symptoms. Following are some of the symptoms of infantile asthma:
Rapid Breathing Pattern
If your baby has asthma, you may find a change in your baby’s breathing pattern. The usual breathing pattern of a three-month-old baby is 30 to 60 breaths per minute. This breathing pattern changes from three months onwards and becomes 20 to 40 breaths per minute. However, a baby with asthma may show 50 percent increase in the breaths per minute.
Tightness in the Chest
A baby with asthma will have a stiff chest because of stretched thoracic muscles.
Strenuous Breathing
You may find your baby struggling to breathe properly, and the rapid belly movements and flared nostrils are the visible signs of the same.
An excessive Cough
You may notice your baby coughing uncontrollably. These coughing bouts may become more prominent during late evenings or at the night time.
Wheezing Sound
An asthmatic baby will make a wheezing sound while breathing. This wheezing sound occurs due to strained breathing.
Difficulty in Eating
A baby with asthma may find it difficult to eat properly. This is due to the difficulty in breathing.
Tiredness and Lethargy
If your baby has asthma, you may find your baby less active than usual.
Faint Crying Sounds
Asthmatic babies make faint crying sounds, or their cries are very feeble in comparison to normal babies.
Blue or Pale Skin and Nails
The lower levels of oxygen in the blood may make your baby’s lips or nail beds appear blue or pale in colour.
These are some signs of asthma in babies that will help you establish if your baby is suffering from this medical condition.
Knowing Asthma Emergencies
The asthma attack can be mild, moderate, or severe. A baby may feel normal and act fine under a mild asthma attack. However, in a moderate or severe asthma attack, your baby may exhibit the following signs:
Increased breathing rate (more than 40 breaths per minute while sleeping).
Chest gets bigger.
Change in skin colour (pale or blue around the lips and fingernails).
Feeding or suckling stops.
Wider nostrils.
Faint and soft crying.
If you register above signs and symptoms in your baby, take care of it right away.
Which Infants are Most at the Risk of Getting Asthma?
Your infant or baby is more likely to have asthma under following circumstances:
If it Runs in the Family
Most cases of asthma are genetic, and if either of the parents has asthma, there is a high possibility that the baby will have it too. Your baby also has chances of having asthma if any of the close blood relatives has asthma.
Allergies
If your baby is allergic to airborne substances (dust mites, pollens, plant fibres, fungal spores and moulds) then there is a high possibility that your baby will have asthma. More than 60 percent of asthma cases are of allergic asthma. When your baby inhales either of these allergens, his immune system acts vigorously. This in turns results in inflamed airways and accelerated mucus that triggers asthma.
Eczema
The correlation between eczema and asthma is being backed by scientific research too. This means that both these ailments are caused because of the same mutated gene. Thus, if your baby suffers from eczema, there are 20 percent chances that he will have asthma too.
High Eosinophil Count
Your baby’s eosinophil count (a type of white blood cell) may become higher if your baby is prone to allergies. More than four percent eosinophil count in your baby’s blood and saliva makes him susceptible to asthma.
Wheezing
If you notice a wheezing sound with every bout of cold, this means your baby has constricted airways. This condition may lead to asthma in babies.
Food Allergies
Asthma resulting from food allergies is not very common. However, there are chances that your baby may develop asthma because of certain food allergies.
How Is Asthma Diagnosed in Babies?
If your doctor suspects that your baby has asthma, he may adopt following measures to ascertain the same:
Enquire About the Symptoms
Your doctor may ask you about various asthmatic symptoms that your baby may be exhibiting.
Study the Family’s Medical History
You may be asked about your family’s medical history. He will enquire if there have been any cases of allergies, eczema, or asthma in the family earlier.
X-Ray of the Chest
Your doctor will suggest performing an x-ray of your baby's chest to examine any blockage in the bronchioles, swelling in the tissues, or accumulation of mucus.
Blood Test
Your baby’s blood may be tested to check the eosinophil count. The increased count is indicative of asthma.
The diagnosis is made after checking the above-mentioned parameters. Once the diagnosis is complete, your doctor will advise you on the best treatment options for your baby.
Treatments for Infant Asthma
There is no cure for asthma. The medication only helps in managing the symptoms of this ailment. There are various ways in which medicine may be administered to your baby, such as:
Nebulizer
Dry-Powder Inhaler (DPI)
Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI)
Injections
If you are looking for medicines, then you should know that asthma medicines generally fall into three categories which are as follows:
Long-Term Control Medicines
As the name suggests, the infants may be required to take this medicines for a long time to prevent the symptoms of asthma. The severity of your baby’s condition will help your doctor decide how long your baby may be requiring the medicine.
Quick-Relief Medicines
These medicines provide quick relief from breathlessness, wheezing, and tightness in the chest muscles. These medicines can be administered intravenously or through MDI. They provide instant relief from the symptoms of asthma and are not used to provide long-term benefit.
Allergy-Induced Asthma Medicines
If the culprit of the asthma attack is allergens, then your doctor will suggest a separate course of medicines. The allergy induced asthma medicines work in conjunction with quick-relief and long-term asthma medicines.
What Can Be Done to Reduce Asthma Symptoms?
As a parent you may wonder how to prevent asthma in babies or what measures can you adapt to reduce asthma symptoms in babies. Worry not, here are some possible solution to your problem:
Keep your baby away from probable triggers (tobacco smoke, vehicular effluents etc).
Keep your baby’s room clean and dust-free.
Give washable toys to your baby and wash them once a weak.
Keep your baby away from pets.
Use air purifiers and humidifiers when necessary.
Avoid food that may trigger allergies.
All the above-mentioned may help in reducing the symptoms of asthma. However, as soon as you establish any asthmatic symptoms in your baby, seek medical help immediately.
How to Manage Infantile Asthma?
Asthma can be troubling not only for the child but for the parents too. Below are some measures that you can employ to manage infantile asthma:
Understand and look out for the emergency asthma signs in your baby. Knowing your baby’s asthma pattern helps you tackle it better.
It is important that you make a care plan with your doctor to take apt measures during emergencies.
Stick to your baby’s care plan and talk regularly to your doctor about the same.
Help your toddler and pre-schooler to learn to explain to you if they are not feeling too well.
Is Asthma Curable?
Asthma is a chronic condition that may affect your baby for a long time. There is no available cure for asthma; however, in some children, the symptoms of asthma become less severe as they grow. It is seen that 50 percent of kids outgrow their asthma symptoms by the time reach adolescence.
It is very important for parents to understand that asthma may not hamper proper growth and development of the baby if you take proper care. Get proper medical help and guidance to manage this chronic ailment in your baby.
Also Read: Bronchiolitis in Babies – Causes, Signs And Treatment Read more
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Gift Your Wife Something Special This Valentine's Day - 20 Best Ideas
Giving your wife the perfect present seems like something any man would do. And sometimes getting the right present could make your love grow stronger and craft long-lasting memories. Just because you're married doesn't mean the romance should fade away. Ignite it this Valentine's by gifting your wife good memories and loving gifts. Here are some Valentine's present ideas for this season.
20 Thoughtful Valentine's Gift Ideas for Your Wife
A gift is something that is thoughtful and cherished - it's something that crafts memories and is used for years together. Thankfully, buying a gift doesn't have to feel like a difficult chore. To help you out, we've added a variety of items which are ideal for the gamer, the fashionista, and many other personas your wife could conjure up. Here is a list of the best presents for getting your wife this Valentine's!
Yoga Mat
A yoga mat might just what your wife needs if she exercises a lot, or if you just want to introduce her to the world of yoga. Either way, you don't have to worry about sweat and clean-ups with a non-sticky yoga mat. Get one that features a slick polyurethane construction which makes wiping away any sweaty residues a cinch, and that includes a rubber bottom prevents slipping and holds it firmly in place. This is one of the best valentines gifts for her without a doubt.
Doodling Books
Doodling books are a perfect way to introduce your wife to the world of drawing and get her creative juices flowing. Ideal for beginners and beyond, these have numerous exercises like zentangles, doodles, and even projects that involve doodling on textiles and wood, making it an absolute Valentine's treat!
T-shirt
We know what you're thinking - 'Isn't gifting a t-shirt amongst valentine's day gifts for wife too traditional or corny?' We think not. In fact, we believe not. If your wife loves to cycle outdoors a lot, you'd be surprised what a sports t-shirt has to offer. It's also easy to wash and doesn't fade, which makes laundry time a breeze.
Journals
If your wife is having a hard time in her work life or other areas, you can make her day extra special by gifting her a thoughtful journal. Spiral-bound ones are our favourites! After all, penning your thoughts down on paper and writing positive affirmations are proven ways to change your life and live happier. It's hands-down one of the most mindful valentine gifts for your wife, one which will be appreciated for years to come.
Manga
Manga or Japanese comics which are translated to English are the craze these days. The diverse plots, creative cast of characters, and cultural worlds that expand and go beyond borders are what makes reading a treat. If you're a manga lover and want your wife to dip her toes into that world, then supernatural and shoujo manga are great for a start. These comics are filled with drama, dilemmas, doppelgangers, romance, and unexpected twists and turns involved. Gift her a volume this Valentine's.
Chocolate Cake
A chocolate cake is not only delicious, but it also melts hearts like a charm. Handcrafted to perfection and oozing with the goodness of cherries and cream, you'll have plenty of room for a dessert feast with one of these.
Weekly Meal Planning Pad
Is your wife trying to switch to eating healthier or having a hard time organizing her thoughts during meal prep? Get her a meal planner and notice how her stress melts away.
Rain Jacket
If you're feeling creative and want to gift her something functional, give a dazzling rain jacket a shot. It's got everything she'd ever want to face those rainy days in style. Make sure you get one with zippers and hidden pockets!
Cat Eye Sunglasses
Cat eye sunglasses are the trend these days and women love it. Let your wife feel chic with a pair of these. Trust us, it's worth every penny.
Deluxe Beauty and Moisturizer Set
Make sure her skincare routines and never boring but super unique every single time with a deluxe beauty and moisturizer set. They usually have everything you need, and give the skin a healthy glow. They also moisturize the pores thoroughly, making her skin radiant and gorgeous.
Bluetooth Over-the-ear Headphones
If your wife loves listening to music or does a lot of gaming, gift her a pair of stunning over-the-ear headphones this romantic season. It has everything she'd ever want, hands-down.
Bangle Set
Love bangles? Express your love with a gorgeous bangle set that she won't be able to take her eyes off.
Sports Sneakers
For a woman on the run or the dedicated marathon aspirant, a pair of sneakers from any popular brand will get those feet moving. Who knows? You might have a pro athlete in the making.
Tote Bag
Make her lifestyle a lot easier and hassle-free with a chic tote bag that's designed to fulfil her shopping dreams.
Fragrance Sample Sets
Can't pick between perfume sets? Why not grab a fragrance set and give her the best of every world with multiple samples to choose from?
Diamond Stud Earrings
Make your love timeless by getting a set of beautiful diamond earrings that are sure to tug at her heartstrings.
Luxury Mattress
Spark up the romance this season and the years to come with this comfy but luxurious mattress. Gift your wife true comfort.
Sterling Jewellery Set
Every woman loves jewellery - what is more precious than a beautiful sterling jewellery set? It can be something that she cherishes for years to come.
Wine Set
Wine and women go well together, and this delectable wine set is sure to hit the spot. It's the perfect Valentine's day gift when delivered to her doorstep.
Minimalist Makeup Set
Every woman's dream is to become a beauty diva with flawless and picture-perfect skin. A makeup set for women includes a touch of minimalism which makes it perfect for hydration and regular use. And who said minimalism can't be classy?
The best gift to give to your wife is the gift of love, but our top 20 Valentine's day gift ideas can also do the trick! Don't forget the three magic words - "I love you", because that's what makes bonds stronger and everlasting.
Also Read:
Ways to Make Valentine's Day Wonderful for Your Wife
Tips to Plan a Surprise Valentine's Getaway with Your partner
DIY Home Decor Ideas for Valentine's Day Read more
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
16 hours ago
Q. i am 39 week of pregnant and having AFI level of 8 is this normal?and is delivery possible for me?
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
9 hours ago
A. yes. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the childdo ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Vandana Sharma has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. please tale me how much dengerous for may 7 days old baby and she was 2.9 kg.
Vandana Sharma
Nutritionist
9 hours ago
A. Hello mom the blood sugar level of baby is quite low , could say hypoglycemia as well .
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
9 hours ago
Q. hlw hospital bag main baby nd mom ke liye kiya kiya le jana chahiye???
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
8 hours ago
A. hospital bag mein baby ke essentials Deni hogi aap YouTube per dekh sakte hain. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. my last period was on 29 February 2024 according to which I am 8 weeks 4 days pregnant but my usg scan shows 7 weeks 3 days
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. For this purpose I’d like to tell you plus -1 or two weeks is completely normal to be seen during ultrasound till the time doctor does not say anything in order of you need to worry about the don’t worry like I said this can be commonly seen in one plus or 2+ weeks or minus weeks is fine
Ashima Malhotra has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
7 hours ago
Q. Am craving to have a burger at McDonald’s. Am 15 week pregnant.
Is it safe to have
Ashima Malhotra
Mom of a 10 m old boy
7 hours ago
A. avoid it
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
7 hours ago
Q. It's my 12th week of pregnancy but last night I noticed some bleeding. So, my doctor prescribed Duphaston for 2 weeks. Is there anything to worry about? Please guide me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. at present take rest and use medicines as advised by the doctor. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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