Having an infant in the home can be magical. However, if that child becomes ill it can be very stressful for the parents. Young babies cannot have medication for colds and pain like older children can, and do not have nearly as strong of immune systems. This is why it is dangerous for young babies to get things like the flu or even a simple cold. Here are a couple things you should do with the infant to help them be comfortable and heal faster.
1. Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate
Generally you should try to get an infant on some sort of feeding schedule. They shouldn't be eating all day. However, when they are sick, drinking might be the best thing for them. The more fluids you can get circulating through their body, the better. This will help to encourage proper immune system functioning so that they will heal faster.
In addition if you are breastfeeding the baby, you will be boosting their immune system. Breast milk carries antibodies from the mother. This is called passive immunity, since you will pass the antibodies to your baby to help fight the illness. Thus, breastfeeding your child often will help them to heal faster and have a stronger immune system.
2. Watch Closely For A Fever
In general you should be able to handle your baby's illness at home. In most cases the illness isn't dangerous to the child's long-term health so long as they can fight it off in a timely manner. However, a fever can be worrisome for a young child. If your child is running a fever of over 100.4 degrees and they are under 3 months old, you need to call the doctor immediately. A fever is not normal for a child this young and can be the sign of a very serious problem. Thus, you should consider taking them to the emergency room, or to their primary care doctor immediately.
3. Give Acetaminophen To Help With Pain
Many times the reason the young child is feeling ill is because of teething or an ear infection. They might be in a great deal of pain. Cuddles can help them to feel comfortable, but you can also safely give a young infant acetaminophen. You should not give a baby ibuprofen until they are at least 6 months old. However, acetaminophen is safe for people of all ages. Talk with your doctor about how much you should dose for your baby.
Here are three things you can do to help your baby when they are ill. (For more information on infant health, contact Pediatric Consultants of Mansfield)
Share9 January 2015
A few years ago, I experienced a huge health scare with my blood pressure. My doctor at the time didn't offer evening or late night care, which forced me to visit the local emergency room for help. Although it may seem like a small thing to some people, not having access to my doctor when I needed it really bothered me. It bothered me so much that I searched for a new doctor after my child was born. Now, I'm happy with my family's new physician. The doctor offers after-hour care, which is a wonderful thing for us. My blog offers tips on how to find the right doctor for your family, as well as many other services you might need one day. So, please read through the blog for the information you need now.