Every new parent expects their child’s health to be free from all health complications, but a number of illnesses have been shown to affect many newborns on a regular basis. This article will discuss five common illnesses in newborns, giving causes, symptoms, and treatment options for each.
Rotovirus is a viral infection found in infants and young children. Symptoms of the disease include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and fever. The virus works by attacking the lining of the small intestine. This results in dehydration from excessive fluid and electrolyte loss. Often these symptoms will last three to ten days. Children infected with rotavirus can be contagious for ten to twelve days after the first signs of diarrhea. Home treatment consists of rest and administration of specially formulated electrolyte replacement products. Examples of these include gastroliths, pediliths, and plamaliths.
Oral thrush is an infection caused by the yeast fungus known as Candida albicans. It is also called candidiasis or moniliasis, but these terms generally describe the onset of infection in adults (candida albicans). Oral thrush often finds its way into the human body when the immune system is weakened. Newborn babies are especially at risk for infections such as oral thrush. Two specific causes of oral thrush are a reaction to antibiotics and transmission from a mother with a yeast infection. The main symptom of oral thrush is evidence of painful white lesions inside the mouth. When oral thrush or thrush is diagnosed, both mother and baby should be treated simultaneously. The infection is usually treated with nystatin.
Cradle cap is a common scalp and skin condition caused by excess oil production from the scalp. Symptoms include scaly, scaly, or greasy crusts on a baby’s scalp, ears, or eyebrows. Cradle cap can be treated by first loosening the crusts. Using baby, mineral, or olive oil, gently rub the scabs for ten minutes, then rinse with shampoo. Comb the hair in one direction with a baby comb, carefully removing any crusty bits as you go. You should then shampoo your child’s hair three times a week for the first three weeks after treatment. Afterward, use the anti-dandruff shampoo once a week until the cradle cap is completely gone. If the condition worsens or begins to look infected, you should immediately contact your pediatrician.
Cat scratch fever is a bacterial infection caused by the microorganism Bartonella henselae. Most of the time it is caused by a scratch or bite from a cat or kitten. Symptoms of a cat scratch infection include small pimples that form around the wound as it heals. These grains can last up to a month. Your baby’s lymph nodes may be swollen and tender. Other symptoms include headache, fever, poor appetite, and fatigue. If you suspect that your child has developed cat scratch fever, you should contact your pediatrician immediately. You can take preventive measures by carefully cleaning cat scratches and bites with soap and water.
Like thrush, ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin. It generally affects the scalp in a condition called tinea capitis. When the fungal infection is present in the body, it is called tinea coporis. Symptoms of a ringworm infection in infants include coin-sized, scaly patches. These rashes can be dry or moist and usually stop growing once they are an inch in diameter. Ringworm on the scalp can look like bald spots or scaly patches with broken hair in the center. Ringworm is sometimes inappropriately confused with cradle cap. Treatment for ringworm should begin in consultation with your pediatrician. They will most likely suggest an over-the-counter antifungal cream. Additional prevention of reinfection includes carefully washing your baby’s bedding until the infection is completely gone.
The presence of any of these diseases would be a cause for concern for any parent. Fortunately, with proper attention to symptoms, consultation with a pediatrician, and careful treatment, each of these can be addressed and cured. With patience and care, you can return to the joy of nurturing your healthy newborn.
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