When To Call A Doctor for Newborn Care

If you are new to newborn care then one of the most important questions that you want to ask a doctor is when to call him and how to know that the baby is really sick. As a parent it becomes mandatory for you to find out if your child is really sick or just being grumpy. Some of the common symptoms that you can keep an eye out for are external symptoms and signs like vomiting( digestive problems or problems related to stomach), breathing problems( allergies or problems related to lungs), rashes( skin related problems), cuts and abrasions( improper handling of baby) that may indicate the problem. While these symptoms are sometimes mild or inconclusive, they may be taken lightly. There are some other symptoms which should be dealt with utmost care and caution and a doctor should be called immediately. Some of such symptoms are:

* Ear infections: Continuous tugging with the ear and an agitated behavior with frequent crying could be the symptom of an ear infection. One of the basic ear infection symptom is having difficulty in sleeping while resting the head sideways on an ear. Though not serious, this condition baby should be checked by a doctor.
* Eye infections: A discharge from eye should never be taken lightly. Immediately call a doctor if such symptom is seen. You should call a doctor immediately.
* Respiratory infections: There are several kinds of respiratory infections that a baby can have. If you have done newborn care earlier you might know that Common cold, allergies, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (SRV) are some of the common respiratory infections that babies suffer from. Common cold and flu are considered very contagious and awfully uncomfortable for a baby, who cannot wipe or clean his own nose and may get difficulty in breathing. Although, many pediatricians advise over the counter medicines and lots of liquids, you should check for SRV if the condition prevails for a long time. Syncytial virus (SRV) is very contagious and care should be taken with the baby around other kids. In severe cases SRV could lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
* Difficulty in breathing: You should immediately call a doctor if the baby is seen having difficulty in breathing for more then a few seconds. As basic newborn care principles before calling the doctor see that the baby has a clear nose and is not in any uncomfortable position which could hinder the baby’s breathing.
* Appetite changes: people with newborn care experience may know that babies can be fussy in eating, but if you see an abrupt change in the appetite of the baby, if he/she refuses to eat after some meals, consider calling a doctor.
* Lethargy or unresponsiveness: If the baby is not moving or is slow in response to cognitive stimulations like light, sound or touch, Call the doctor immediately! This is a serious condition.
* Fever: Normally it is common for babies to have fever but if the baby’s fever is over 100.4 degrees then it is time to call a doctor.

Apart from the above mentioned common symptoms, there are many other symptoms that you have to consider and rely on your parenting common sense to call a doctor or not.