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Crying Baby: Causes & Tips to Calm Your Baby
Imagine that you don’t have a universal language to communicate with your fellow beings. It must be so difficult, especially for a baby. Learning the signs that your baby uses to communicate with you is a crucial aspect of parenting.
Why Do Babies Cry?
Babies communicate their needs like hunger, pain and fear and the need to sleep through their cries. The interpretation of the reason can be tricky. The cry of a baby sounds different from that caused by hunger or the need to sleep. If the baby’s crying does not sound right, you should contact the doctor immediately. Learning what it takes to soothe and comfort an upset or unresponsive baby may take all of your skills of perception and awareness. As the baby grows, it will learn other ways to communicate with you. The different reasons behind a baby’s cry include:
1. Hunger
The baby’s stomach is small. Thus it cannot hold too much and empties very fast. So your baby will need frequent feeds. If your baby is crying, your baby might not be feeding consistently or drinking formula or breastfeed in small quantities and more often. You may try feeding your baby earlier than the estimated 2-3 hours to see if it calms him.
Need to sleep – Babies will tend to fall asleep when they are tired.
However, sometimes they may become fussy or cranky when overtired.
2. Diaper Change
You may need to keep a check on when the baby needs a diaper change.
3. Stomach Problems
If your baby cries a lot, stomach ache caused due to colic or gas could be a reason especially if your baby cries just after being fed.
4. Needs to Burp
Burping is not mandatory. However, if your baby starts crying after being fed, then you may try to burp him to relieve them from the discomfort.
5. Wants to be Held
Babies want to be cuddled. They want to see their parents’ faces and hear their voices. Hence, they may sometimes cry to indicate that they want to be close to you.
6. Feeling Too Hot or Cold
A fussy baby might also be trying to indicate if he is feeling too hot or too cold. As a parent, you should be careful to keep your baby at a comfortable temperature.
7. Something Causing Pain or Discomfort
Sometimes your baby may be troubled by something, like a hair tightly wrapped around a toe or finger, or a scratchy cloth tag.
8. Stimulation
Babies find it difficult at times to process things happening around them (noise, lights). So they may need to be pacified. On the other hand, babies are sometimes outgoing, so they may cry and fuss to be more active.
9. Feeling Unwell
Crying may be a symptom of some illness. Check for any symptoms that could indicate one.
10. Teething
Babies cry and become cranky when they are teething because each tooth pushes through the gums causing pain.
11. Getting Scared
Sometimes babies get scared by something in the environment, like a bad dream or from any other thing that can be scary for babies, that we may take for granted.
12. Separation Anxiety
Babies also experience separation anxiety. It is natural for a baby to be anxious about being separated from the parents, but with patience and reassurance, they are sure to understand that the separation is temporary.
How Should You Hold Your Crying Baby?
Pick the baby and hold him snugly across your chest. Fold the baby’s arms and secure them with your hand and support the baby’s chin also. Hold the baby’s bottom gently with your other hand by using the fleshy part of your arm. Keep the baby at a 45-degree angle and gently rock him. The movement should be smooth and in a sequence. The angle is important because it will help you control the baby. This technique is used for holding babies who are 2 to 3 months old.
Babies cry for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is easy to soothe the baby by feeding, holding or changing the diaper. However, there are times when the baby is inconsolable which may be due to colic.
5 S’s for Soothing a Crying Baby
Mentioned below are different ways to soothe a crying baby.
1. Swaddling
Swaddling your baby in a blanket keeps the baby cosy and secure. Swaddling creates a womb-like feeling, so it helps the baby to settle down faster. You may leave the arms of the baby outside the swaddle so that they can enjoy their freedom.
2. Side Lying
Since your baby has spent most of his time on his side inside the foetus, you may try to hold him in a similar way. This is called the football hold, clutch the baby with one arm and support the head and legs under your armpit.
3. Shushing
Some babies can be calmed by soothing sounds, like a whooshing noise, because it is similar to the sound inside the womb. The whooshing sound should be louder than the baby’s crying, else he or she will not be able to hear it. You may make a “shhh shhh” sound or can use a white noise machine or a mobile phone for the same.
4. Swinging
Fast and rhythmic motions like swinging or rocking may help soothe a fussy baby. You may also use motorized baby swings or gliders. But try not to allow the baby to sleep off while on one. It may lead to him becoming dependant on the motion to fall asleep over time.
5. Sucking
Babies often calm themselves by sucking on a finger or a pacifier. This does not fill their tummies. However, it relaxes their nerves. Keep in mind to avoid resorting to pacifiers all the time as the baby may become dependent on them.
Other Tips to Calm your Baby
The following ways help calm a fussy crying baby:
1. Give a Massage
Massaging is a calming ritual which can be used to soothe a crying baby. You may use lotion or baby massage oil for the massage. Stroke the baby’s chest gently from the centre to outward and make small circles on the stomach and around the belly button. Roll the arms and legs of the baby between your hands. Take turns for massaging each limb in a “milking” motion. Rub the palms and fingers of the baby. Massage the soles of the feet as well. If the baby is alright, then you can turn the baby on his tummy and stroke the back from side to side and then up and down.
2. Entertain
Babies also cry when they are bored. You can keep them entertained by narrating stories or making noises with animated expressions. You can play with the baby’s toys and show him how to rattle and spin different toys.
3. Colic
Sometimes, the cause of crying is colic or gas. You may soothe the baby by holding him (colic carry). You have to apply some pressure to the baby’s tummy. Lay the baby on his tummy on your forearm, with the head rested on your hand. With the other hand, rub the baby’s back gently. You can lay the baby across your lap with one knee under his tummy and the other supporting the head. You may also put the baby down on his back and push the knees up to his stomach for about 10 seconds each. This action of release and repeat help relieve the gas.
4. Get the Baby Outside
Sometimes, all that a cranky baby needs is to get out into fresh air. A change in the surroundings (light, air, temperature and sound) may improve the baby’s mood. If you are unable to take the baby out for a walk, you may take him for a drive.
5. Sing a Lullaby
Sometimes just singing a lullaby can calm a crying baby. Your voice will comfort the baby.
6. Using a Front Pack Carrier to Carry the Baby
You can walk around with your baby facing your body in a front pack carrier. The closeness and rhythm of your steps will help the baby relax. Babies enjoy being carried around.
7. Keep Calm
Sometimes over stimulation causes the baby to become cranky since everything is new to them. So, you may create a soothing environment around him . You can take the baby to a separate room dim the lights and put on some light music.
What If your Baby is Crying Without Any Reason?
Babies can cry and be fussy during the initial months. They might even have a particular time during the day which is their fussy period. A standard fussy period may start from 2 to 6 weeks, reaches its peak at 6 weeks and is gone by the 4th month. The fussy period usually lasts for about 2 to 4 hours every day. Normal crying or fussiness occurs at a similar time, for a similar duration and with the same intensity. The baby will respond to the same things every time. If your baby does not stop crying, you need to try out the 5 S soothing methods. However, if you feel that your baby’s crying or being fussy is not normal, consult your paediatrician.
What is Self-Soothing?
Self-soothing means the baby’s ability to regulate his emotions. Nowadays, paediatricians recommend parents to allow the baby to self-soothe. While self-soothing needs to be taught to most babies, it comes naturally to some. Mellow babies learn to self-soothe earlier than babies with more insistent personalities.
When to Teach your Baby to Self-Soothe?
Self-soothing teaches the baby to settle down between the age of 6 to 9 months with a little parental guidance. If you start to teach the baby too early, then the baby may tend to become fussy. You have to be patient with the baby during the initial days since the baby is still trying to adapt to the world around. Until the baby learns to vocalise his needs, the caregiver may need to use all the senses to assess preferences. From the 4th month onwards, you may start teaching the baby to self-soothe.
How to Teach your Baby to Self-Soothe?
The process of teaching your baby to self-soothe requires a lot of encouragement from your side. You need to take one step at a time to allow the baby’s body and mind to adapt.
1. Change of Mindset
When you start teaching the baby to self-soothe, it important that you let go. It is important to give the baby a chance to self-soothe and believe that the baby will be able to do so. Initially, it will be difficult however rescuing your baby from discomfort every time will not give him the opportunity to self-soothe. Hence, we need to learn to equip the baby to handle discomfort.
2. Establish a Bedtime Routine
It is important that you establish a routine for the baby. Predictability will make the baby less anxious and will also lessen the resistance. You should try to do the same things at the same time and in the same order.
3. Do Not Pick the Baby Right Away
There will always be a temptation to pick up and soothe a crying or fussy baby. However, it may have its own set of problems like –
Your baby will not get a chance to settle on his own and will not be able to get the opportunity to calm down.
Your baby associates waking up with a need to have external help to help him to fall asleep. They will not realise that it is alright to find ways to self-soothe.
Rushing every time to calm the baby will make you feel drained and stressed out. Your baby will be able to sense your anxiety and start feeling stressed as well.
4. Leaving the Baby’s Arms Un-Swaddled
Swaddles are a way to help to calm a baby, especially in the newborn days. Swaddling does not allow the baby to suck their hands, which is a way to self-soothe.
5. Put the Baby Down When He’s Drowsy But Awake
You should learn to put the baby down when he’s drowsy but awake. The baby should be drowsy enough that he can fall asleep easily, but not too drowsy that the baby is not able to adjust to the new environment. A baby who is slightly awake will be able to find his bearings and sleep without being held. You may look for sleep cues to determine when it’s time for the baby to take another nap.
6. Use Dim Lights or White Noise
Make the baby’s room conducive to sleep by keeping it dim or adding white noise, so the baby has a better chance of falling and staying asleep. It is okay if your baby is lying down awake. They will fall asleep on their own. In case the baby is fussing while lying down, you may help them settle down or rock them to a sleepy state.
7. Feed your Baby after He or She Wakes Up
You should try and feed the baby after waking up. This way, the baby is encouraged to find alternate ways to sleep like sucking, rocking the head from side to side or cooing. The baby will have the energy to play while being awake and will be able to digest the feed reducing the chances of gas.
8. Give the Baby a Comfort Item
You may try to get the baby used to a toy to encourage self-soothing. The baby finds comfort in them.
Frequently asked questions
1. Does a Baby’s Ability to Self-Soothe Reflect the Parenting Abilities?
A baby’s ability to self-soothe depends on the baby’s temperament and not on your parenting abilities.
2. Do All Babies Self-Ssoothe Easily?
Sometimes babies do not self-soothe or resist it. You should not be afraid that the baby lacks something or will not be independent. On the other hand, the ability to engage with the baby to comfort the baby is considered to be extremely healthy.
3. How Old Will My Baby be Before She Learns to Soothe Herself?
The ability to self-soothe depends largely on the personality of the baby. While some babies are born with good self-soothing skills, others may take time to learn the skill.
4. What are the Alternate Techniques to Comfort a Baby?
The baby should know that you believe in them. As a parent, you should be able to be around the baby and keep reassuring him verbally or by body language.
5. What to Do If the Baby Cannot Sleep without Nursing?
If your baby is drowsy enough but wakes up each time you lay him, you should use your judgment and let the baby understand that it is time to sleep and see if he or she can settle down in a few minutes.
6. Can I Spoil My Baby If I Respond to Every Cry?
It is not possible to spoil a baby by comforting them when they are upset. However, responding instantly to crying is not necessary. Parents should aim to be consistent in their response to the baby’s crying. This is the key to building a sense of security in the baby in the growing years.
7. For How Long Can I Leave My Baby Alone?
It is a good idea to leave the baby for about 10 to 15 minutes and check on him at regular intervals.
Also Read: Basics of Baby Sleep: 10 to 12 Months Read more
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Role of the Family in a Child's Development
Humans are social animals, and thus the social structure plays an important role in their development. The first social interaction that takes place in a baby’s life is with his family only, or his immediate family is the first social group that a child may interact with. So, what role does a family play in a child’s development? Let's take a look.
How Does the Family Influence a Child's Development?
Family members are the first few people that a child interacts with and thus the role of the family in the socialization of a child cannot be undermined. It is because of these interactions that may help a child to have a better understanding of himself and of people around him. The way a child is loved, cared and nurtured at home provides the opportunities for a child to thrive better in his life. A family’s impact on child development is like a foundation, which may help in shaping up the future of a child. Here are some ways a family may influence a child’s development:
1. Values
A child is like a sponge and absorbs whatever he may notice or observe. This leaves a big onus on the parents because the child may eventually learn from the parents. Therefore, if you respect a certain section of society or give more preference to some people, your kid may be making his opinions in a similar manner. When you may behave in a disrespectful manner with somebody, your kid may be observing that too. The best way to teach a child is to lead by example, more than preaching it is what you may be practising that your child is more likely to follow. Also, it will be a good idea to start inculcating good values from a younger age only. We think that a younger child may not be able to appreciate or understand the importance of learning good values, but that may not be true. Kids understand better when you make them understand the consequences of their actions. Help them know what may happen if they do things a certain way and vice-a-versa. Therefore, it is very important for a family to inculcate good values in their child.
2. Socialization and Social Development
You and your family is your baby’s first social group. This means whatever your kid may be learning; he may be learning by observing the family members. It is observed that happy families or families that treat each other with love and respect help in giving a positive outlook of a family with their kid or share a positive example of social interaction. If your family spends quality time by having meals together, watching television together or spends time doing other such things together, it may help in fostering healthy social development. Also, your interactions with your child help him in learning about interaction with others. It is the way a family interacts with a child that may help a child to understand about relationships better. He may learn how to feel comfortable, make friends or trust people from his own family only. Relationships are very important for human survival, and your kid may learn to make and sustain relationships from his family. The foundations of good social skills are laid at home, which may help your kid to have better social skills and help him socialize better as he grows.
3. Developmental Skills
It is very important for a child to learn various developmental skills such as motor skills, cognitive skills, emotional skills and language skills for his optimal growth and development.
For helping your child polish his motor skills, you should involve your kid in various kinds of physical activities that may help him tune his motor skills. What may seem ordinary or comes naturally to you as an adult may be a task for your little one. In order to help his motor skills help your kid to learn to sit, walk, crawl, run and do other such physical activities.
To help your kid with the language, it is important that you talk, read, sing or engage in other such activities that involve the use of language. It has been observed that parents or family members who spend more time talking to younger children have better hold over language.
It is very important for a child to learn various emotional skills and a family plays an important part in that. It is from a family that a kid learns about various emotions such as love, compassion, sympathy etc. In lack of proper emotional skills, your child may not be able to express himself better emotionally and may lead to making destructive choices later in life.
4. Security
A child understands security from his family because it is the family only that tends to all his basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter. Apart from taking care of these basic survival needs of a child, a family provides a child with emotional security that he may not find anywhere else. This is because when your kid is outdoors, he may be required to behave in a certain manner or be social because he may be expected to behave as per the social norms. However, at home, he may express openly, and thus it becomes important that a safe and secure environment is created at home for a child to express freely. A child who feels secure and safe may grow and develop better than a child who may be living in an unsecured environment, where he may be scared to express himself freely. Security is of utmost importance for a child, and it may help your kid to grow better emotionally, physically and cognitively.
Nurturing a child is not a cake walk, and it requires great effort on the parent’s part. However, it is an extremely rewarding experience to see your child turn into a responsible and caring human being. It is not only important to inculcate good values and habits in your child, but it is also important to provide a conducive and secure environment to make sure that your child is able to abide by what you have taught him. Also, perfection may not always be feasible, and there is no harm in making mistakes, and the same goes for bringing up children. Parents are humans and may make mistakes but what is more important is to register the mistake and make amends. Do not be too harsh on yourself or your child. A family is a child’s first source of learning and thus make sure it is a good one. No one is perfect, but you can surely strive to make efforts to do the right things so that it may help in optimal growth and development of your child.
Also Read: Factors Affecting Growth and Development in Child Read more
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5 Common Foods That Are Actually BAD For Your Baby's Brain and Memory Development
Your baby is in a crucial stage of life where his development will form the base of his future. His memory and brain and how they develop play a huge role in deciding how this future will shape up. Just as you feed him nutritious food to boost his physical strength, his cognitive development also requires the right kind of diet. The WRONG foods can actually prove harmful by making his memory dull and his brain power weak!
Kids are often fussy eaters and throw tantrums at meal-times. Unless you are a very lucky mom, it is likely that your child demands a favourite item at every meal, and this item is often something you see as not very healthy. However, many of us end up giving these foods to our kids to make them happy or to encourage them to finish their regular meal. Well, unfortunately, some of these foods may not be just fattening or without nutrition, but they may also be harming your little one's brain and memory!
Beware of these common foods which are a complete no-no for your little one's brain power
1. These popular 'Quick Snacks'
Packed chips
Packed pizzas and burgers
2-minute noodles with MSG
Yes, they are actually as bad as the reputation they have! Packed and processed foods should be avoided strictly as they’ve been linked to mood swings and behavioural changes in addition to headaches and hyperactivity. When your child is suffering these behavioural problems, his focus and cognitive ability are bound to go down. Try and stick to fresh and whole foods as far as possible.
2. Foods that are just 'too colourful'
Packaged jellies
Multi-coloured candies
Powdered sugar
How all our kids love those colourful, shiny foods in the market! Artificial colouring is often overlooked for just sugar, and something that kids will eat. However, it has been linked to a series of cognitive problems, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, hyperactivity, and headaches in children. This becomes a key factor causing detrimental effects on their development. While we often see such colouring as sugar, the fact is that most high-sugar food does contain artificial colouring, and the negative effects of sugar on development are widely known. Additionally, such foods can sometimes not just affect the child’s development but also be harmful for human consumption due to the presence of adulterants.
3. Caffeinated food or drinks
Caffeine is a substance that is naturally found in chocolate, tea and coffee and is also added by companies to aerated drinks and some common cold medications. It is a stimulant that can be dangerous in high quantities – even for adults. But kids are more sensitive to caffeine and their thus their intake should be limited to a maximum of 45 milligrams a day. Excess consumption can cause jumpiness, nervousness, sleep loss, hyperactivity, headache or stomach ache - all of which are harmful for their mental development and overall health!
4. Foods that are just sugar
This one is almost a no-brainer, but makes it to this list as sugar is among the worst culprits that damage brain development! High sugar foods are loved by all children, whether it be ice-creams, cakes or candy. However, excess sugar has been known to cause hyperactivity and affect the child's appetite. This means he will not just be restless, and less likely to concentrate on the task at hand, but also go without wholesome nutrition at meal time. Further, it can also cause stomach aches and weakened immunity. So, just chuck all those sugar balls and goodies that have nothing but sugar in them, and opt for healthier options at home, such as this delicious sugar-free Kaju Katli!
5. These much-loved high trans-fat foods
Readymade cake frosting
Tortilla chips
Fries
Frozen pizza crusts
Thee and more foods in the same league are very high in trans-fats - a component that is extremely bad for health and has been proven to adversely affect memory! They increase inflammation in your child's brain. Additionally, by reducing the production of a chemical called serotonin, they can lead to depression as well. There's even more: such foods also increase the levels of 'bad' cholesterol and subsequently the risk of heart diseases as well. Really not worth it, right?
So, what is good?
Now that we know what is detrimental to brain and memory development, what is actually effective in improving it? Here are the three main brain-boosting elements you can provide to your child through the food he eats.
1. Provide 'good fats' to their brain
Our brains use natural fats to maintain cell membranes and function properly. 'Good' fats help maintain this. Therefore, foods containing these fats should be included in your child's diet. Some of them include:
Mono-unsaturated Fats: Found in olive oil, sesame oil, peanut butter, nuts, seeds and avocados. Consumption can lower your risk of stroke and heart disease too
Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) that are in two forms - Omega 3 and Omega 6: Omega 3 is found in nuts and seeds, grass-fed animal meat and free range chicken eggs. Omega 6 is found in flaxseed, chia, green leaves, walnuts, many fish oils, grass-fed animal meats, oysters, and shrimp
Natural Saturated Fats: These are found in coconut and palm oils, egg yolks, butter, and cream
2. Stimulate their memory with choline
Choline results in a more stimulated brain which is an important part of memory development. Choline-rich foods include: eggs, fish oils, liver, soybeans, peanuts, butter, potatoes, cauliflower, lentils, oats, sesame seeds and flax seeds ||
3. Boost brain power with these 'pigments'
Substances like anthocyanin and querecetin have been proven to help enhance cognitive power in children, as per a study by Harvard. All you have to do is include these foods: berries, cherries, black currants, eggplant, red, purple and black grapes, red onion, red apples, beets, onions, kale, leeks, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, blueberries and apricots
Must-have foods in their diet
In addition to the above guidelines, you should make some small changes to your child's diet to ensure they get a memory boost. One of the best ways to do this to make certain there’s high nutrition in the food she eats. Aside from better memory, she’ll enjoy the benefits of a stronger immune system and better overall development too. So, go ahead and up your kids' consumption of these foods:
1. Fish
Fish like tuna and salmon (fresh, not canned) is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. However, don’t feed your toddler more than three portions a day as fish may contain mercury. If she isn’t the biggest fan of fish, you might have to be a little innovative. Try boiling and shredding the fish and adding it to rice. You can also prepare fishcake with potatoes and coated in breadcrumbs to be fried. If she is fond of fish, include it in a tuna sandwich.
2. Milk
This one is a classic but no less powerful! Milk, which has long been known to build healthy bones and give kids a vitamin and protein boost, also helps improve their brain power. Make sure you don't forego that daily glass of milk. In case your child has lactose intolerance, check with the doctor to see what alternatives you can opt for.
3. Whole-wheat cereal and bread
If you’ve been wondering if it’s alright to give your toddler whole-wheat, it is. Kids who cross the 6-month mark can have foods containing wheat germ, an important source of choline. Whole-wheat bread and cereal are packed with vitamins B6 and B12. You can alternate with cereal and bread throughout the week. Iron-fortified cereal is the best bet for your little one as children need iron for proper development. While whole-wheat is healthy, you might want to regulate the portion sizes. Too much and your toddler will get too full and there won’t be enough room in her tummy for other foods with equally beneficial nutrients.
4. Eggs
Most toddlers love the taste of eggs, which is good news considering it’s another food that improves memory power in toddlers. Eggs are a rich source of protein, while the yolk contains the ever-important choline that helps develop memory. An egg sandwich mixed with potato is an easy way to ensure your little one enjoys her morning breakfast. Scrambled eggs with a little butter is another quick way to get your child to benefit from eating eggs. Studies suggest that egg yolk calms a toddler’s brain, thereby improving concentration and memory.
5. Beans and oil
Foods rich in monounsaturated fats also help in brain development. They can be found in extra virgin olive oil, seeds and nuts. Folic acid is also good for brain growth. Some of the best folic acid sources include soybeans, spinach, broccoli and oranges. Glucose-rich beans and oatmeal also have the power to fuel your toddler’s brain. Spinach and pasta, and broccoli and butter are a couple of ways to get these ‘hated’ foods into your toddler's diet.
With the best foods for brain development, your child will surely get a memory boost. Her retentive skills will become sharper while intellectual and academic growth will improve. Moms, it’s now time to make small changes to our children’s diet plan and start making these wonderful things happen! Read more
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Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS)
The usual tenure of a normal pregnancy is 40 weeks. During these 40 weeks, the fetus grows and develops all critical organs such as the brain, heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs. Proper development of all these organs is dependent on multiple factors such as the good health of the mother and availability of essential nutrients to the baby on a timely basis.
At times, due to the premature birth of the baby, all organs might not develop fully and this can lead to serious complications which require immediate attention after birth.
What is Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome?
Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, also known as hyaline membrane disease, is a condition where the lungs of the infant have not developed fully at the time of birth, leading to improper functioning of the organ. Healthy lungs are of utmost importance for a newborn baby’s survival and babies with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome may experience difficulty in breathing normally.
Causes and Risk Factors for Respiratory Distress Syndrome in a Newborn
Premature birth is one of the major causes of respiratory distress syndrome in newborn babies. Premature babies lack surfactant, a substance that facilitates the expansion and contraction of the lungs. It also helps to keep alveoli, small air sacs in the lungs, open. This deficiency can lead to breathing difficulties and lung problems.
The syndrome can also be caused due to genetic problems related to lung development in the child.
In addition to premature delivery of the baby, other risk factors that may lead to respiratory distress syndrome in a newborn include:
C-section delivery without maternal labour
Existence of maternal diabetes
History of IRDS in the family
Pregnancy with twins, triplets
Perinatal asphyxia
Inconsistent and impaired blood flow to the baby during pregnancy
Signs and Symptoms of Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Newborns
Most signs and symptoms of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome or neonatal RDS in a newborn are visible right after the birth of the baby. However, the symptoms might surface even up to 24 hours after the birth of the baby. The usual signs and symptoms to watch out for include:
Flaring of nostrils at the time of breathing
Shallow to rapid breathing
Appearance of the skin with a bluish tint
Heaviness while breathing
Decreased output of urine
Grunting at the time of breathing
Increased heart rate
Wheezing
Excessive sweating
Some of these symptoms are similar to symptoms of other conditions and infections. If your baby is experiencing any of these symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor and get the necessary tests done to identify the root cause and take necessary corrective actions.
If the problem is not taken care of on a timely basis, it may result in the increase of carbon dioxide levels in the blood causing irreversible damage to the baby.
Diagnosis
In order to diagnose the condition, doctors might suggest the performance of lab tests to rule out the presence of other infections which could cause breathing problems. The doctor may make the following assessments and suggest the following tests in order to diagnose the condition:
Appearance, colour and breathing patterns of the baby to identify any deviations from normal body condition at birth.
X-ray of the chest to check the condition of lungs.
Perform a blood gas analysis to check the level of oxygen in the blood with increased levels of carbon dioxide and presence of excess acid in the body fluids.
Echocardiography might be performed to rule out any heart problems which can cause symptoms that are similar to respiratory distress syndrome.
Complications
Neonatal RDS can lead to complications which can be fatal and have a long-lasting impact on the normal growth of the baby. In certain cases, the condition can also be life-threatening if not attended to. Other complications which may result from the condition include:
Blindness
Blood infection
Blood clots in the body
Improper mental growth leading to mental retardation
Build-up of air in the sac around the lungs and the heart
Bleeding in the brain or lungs
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia which is a breathing disorder
Pneumothorax – collapsed lung
A severe respiratory distress syndrome can also lead to kidney failure and improper development of other important organs. Depending on the severity of the distress, the complications would be different in each newborn. It is important to consult your doctor and understand the solution to any complications which the baby is facing.
Treatment
The symptoms of respiratory distress syndrome usually present themselves immediately after the birth of the baby. Infants born with this condition are kept under observation in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Timely treatment of the condition is of sub-prime importance in this case. Delayed corrective action can lead to further complications as the organs of the baby are devoid of sufficient oxygen.
Following are the treatments available for babies diagnosed with infant respiratory distress syndrome:
Surfactant Replacement Therapy: In cases where the baby lacks sufficient surfactant, this therapy gives them the surfactant through a breathing tube. This ensures that the surfactant goes into the lungs. The drug comes is a powder form and is given to the baby by mixing sterile water to it. After this is done, the baby is put o a ventilator to provide extra breathing support. Depending on the severity of the syndrome, the doctor will decide the frequency and duration of this procedure. This therapy is most effective when started during the first six hours after birth.
Oxygen Therapy: In this therapy, oxygen is delivered to the infant's organs. In the absence of sufficient oxygen, the critical organs may not function properly and hence a ventilator is used to administer oxygen to the infant.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment: In this treatment, a continuous positive airway pressure machine (NCPAP) is used to administer oxygen through the nostrils by placing a small mask on the nose. The infant might also receive a more invasive treatment that involves placing a ventilator down in the windpipe which will then breathe for the infant.
The doctor might decide to use medication to reduce the pain which the infant might face while any of the treatment is in progress. Consult your doctor to understand which treatment will be apt for your baby and how long will it take the infant to recover from the condition.
Also, understand the necessary precautions which will be needed to ensure that the baby does not suffer from repercussions of the condition.
Prevention
The major cause of respiratory distress syndrome in infants is a premature birth. In order to prevent RDS in newborn, it is important to take measures to ensure that the baby is born in time and not prematurely.
The risk of premature delivery can be reduced by taking consistent and good precautions throughout the prenatal pregnancy period coupled with no consumption of alcohol, illicit drugs, and cigarettes during pregnancy.
In cases where premature delivery is likely or inevitable, the doctor may administer corticosteroids to the mother. This drug is useful for the faster development of the lung and production of surfactant which is highly essential for the proper functioning of infant’s lungs.
Tackling neonatal respiratory distress syndrome can be challenging for the parents. The condition requires the babies to be under constant supervision and care. It is important to consult your doctor on necessary precautions to be taken for your baby for the next few years after birth. Periodical body tests, eye check-up and hearing exams along with speech therapy might be necessary for the baby in the future.
Also Read: Gray Baby Syndrome – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and More Read more
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Proper Sitting Posture At a Computer - Tips to Maintain Posture While At Your Desk
Today, most people have a job that involves sitting in front of a computer for long hours. As the human body is not meant to be in a single position for lengthy periods, sitting for long will eventually cause harm. If your work requires you to be at your desk all day, it is important that you adopt the correct posture to avoid ailments.
Why Do You Need a Proper Sitting Posture?
Everyone is aware of the negative effects of a bad posture. Apart from pain in the neck, lower back, upper back, and possibly a hunch, there are many other negative effects that a bad sitting posture can result in such as an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular problems.
Apart from preventing the risks, a proper sitting posture also:
Keeps your bones and joints in alignment and makes sure your muscles work well
Reduces any abnormal wear and tear of joint muscles and thus prevents arthritis
Lessens the strain on the ligaments and spine
Prevents you from becoming fatigued too soon since your muscles are used correctly
Prevents problems such as strain injuries, aches and pains
Prevents pinched nerves that cause pain in the shoulders, slouching, and carpal tunnel syndrome
How To Sit Properly in Front of a Computer?
Knowing how to sit correctly in front of a computer can save you from experiencing the problems mentioned above. If you don't know what you've been doing wrong, below are a few tips that you may find useful:
1. Get the Right Chair
Before we get into how you should sit, we suggest that you invest in the right type of chair since it can help you maintain the right sitting posture. Ergonomic chairs can keep you comfortable and reduce the muscle tension and stress that your body would otherwise go through from sitting in a normal chair.
2. Correct Pelvis Posture
Your pelvis should be in a neutral position, and your bottom should touch the back of the chair. If you keep your pelvis in a neutral position, your sitz bones - the most prominent bones in your buttocks - will feel flat and most of your weight will shift to the back of your thighs. The right pelvic position helps you to maintain a straight spine and prevent slouching.
3. Align Your Ears, Shoulders and Hips
Our spine is not really straight and we have some natural curves that help to keep the body upright. When you align your ears, shoulders and hips, you are maintaining the natural curves of your spine. Shifting from this position tends to cause more stress on the spine, and results in pain and discomfort.
4. Correct Back Position
Along with keeping your ears, shoulders and hips aligned, it is important to make the backrest of your chair recline at the correct angle. You will need to adjust the backrest until it is at a 100 or 110 degrees angle. You can also make use of a small pillow or lumbar cushion to keep your lower back in its natural curved state.
5. Correct Arms and Keyboard Position
Your armrest should be adjusted so that a 100 – 110 degrees angle is formed. Keep your hands lower than your elbows, with your fingers pointing downwards. You will likely need to adjust your keyboard tray so that it is tilting slightly away from you. Avoid resting your wrists on the keyboard since this will cause strain in them.
6. Correct Feet and Legs Position
You should adjust the height of your chair so that your feet touch the floor. If you wear heels, it may be more comfortable for you to take them off while you are seated at your desk. In case your feet don't touch the ground, invest in a footrest or stool so that you can keep your feet flat and your knees do not experience a lot of strain.
7. Proper Mouse and Monitor Position
The computer and mouse position can either make or break your attempt to maintain the right posture. Keep the computer screen at eye level to avoid bending down or looking up for extended periods. If you are tall or the table is too low, you may need to place the screen on an elevated surface such as a pile of books or monitor stand. You must also place the screen at arm's length so that you avoid straining your eyes. Your mouse should be kept beside your keyboard so that you do not have to move your arms around too much as you work.
Sitting Positions You Must Avoid
Any type of activity that causes overuse of muscles should be avoided. Sitting in the wrong position can cause muscle strain that can further result in short term discomfort and long term damage. Here are some sitting positions that you must avoid to keep your body strong.
Slumping sideways while sitting, causing the spine to bend
Straining the neck while using the computer
Crossing arms, ankles and knees while sitting
Not giving the lower back enough support
Allowing the feet or legs to dangle
Not shifting your position for a long time
Sitting for hours at a stretch without taking any breaks
Slouching or hunching forward
Using a chair with no proper backrest
Additional Tips to Improve Your Sitting Posture
It may come as a surprise to you, but there are many other things that can improve sitting posture. Modifying your lifestyle can help you sit in the right posture. This is because some activities can help to strengthen the muscles and make it easy to maintain a proper sitting posture while at your desk. If you are curious about what else you can do to help correct your sitting posture, here they are:
Exercise is very important as it helps to strengthen the muscles in your body. Thirty minutes per day, six days a week can do wonders for the body. Aerobics, strengthening and stretching can help with postural problems.
Use hands-free devices when you are taking a long phone call.
Use your legs and not your back while lifting heavy objects and keep them close to your body.
If you have a baby who likes to be carried around, switch sides at regular intervals.
Use a baby stroller whose handle reaches your belly button to avoid putting pressure on delicate areas.
Sitting in the correct posture not only strengthens the body, but it also gives you a better appearance and boosts your self-esteem and self-confidence. It may seem like a lot of trouble to keep correcting your posture at first, but if you do not give up and keep at it, you'll be very happy with how it makes you feel both physically and mentally.
Also Read:
How to Protect Eyes from Computer & Mobile Screen
Eye Exercises to Reduce Eyestrain & Improve Eyesight
Easy to Do Exercises to Correct Posture Read more
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
5 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
5 hours ago
A. to increase milk take latction supplement as lactare...
take green papaya bottle gourd bitter gourd fennel seeds garlic oats ragi dalia sabudana ...
regular pumping increase milk use Babyhug electric breast pump...
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
5 hours ago
Q. hi doctor from two days i am eating milk cream with sugar and i want to burn it in my stomach I am 5 month pregnant plzz help ??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. at present weight no exercise is other than moderate walking. 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
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. I am in my 8th month of pregnancy (last week), and for some reason I am continously facing lot of fatigue. I am feeling deprived of energy and I don't have any energy to do anything. resting isn't Helping in any way and taking small walks isn't too. what can be the possible reason and how to overcome this.
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. yes that can be both physical and psychological problems during pregnancy ok. 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
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. hi,
pls advice , after hcg tigger injection can we do intercourse to conceive and till when we can do ...trying to conceive
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. Hello dear! We understand your eagerness and concern. It is advisable to check with your consulting doctor regarding this matter. Clarify your concerns and follow your doctor’s advice. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Charul Verma has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 7 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. Hello my baby is 20 months old he swallowed a earpod bur he is normal he eat as well as drink please suggest???
Charul Verma
Nutritionist
15 mins ago
A. hi mom
mostly it will be out once he passes stool
but better to show to doctor
it can be checked in x ray if required
Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 7 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. Hello my baby is 20 months old by mistake he swallowed a earpod but he is normal is eat drink plz suggest??
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. It’s fine it should come out into the poop of your child within 24 to 48 hours a lot of mishaps happened with kids these days but these things since they are not edible they do not get digested which is why they come out into the motion
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