Friday 18 September 2015
Diarrhea
Changing diapers--especially if they're runny--is not one of parenthood's joys. Watery and frequent bowel movements are often caused by a virus; but a bacterial infection, allergy, food intolerance, or medicine could also be to blame.
How to treat: Diarrhea usually lasts five to ten days. Dehydration is the main concern, so give baby lots of fluid. Is he also vomiting? Wait 30 minutes after he throws up to offer small, frequent doses of an electrolyte drink. Start with a tablespoon, slowly increasing the dose over time.
When to call the doctor: If your sick baby has a high fever or bloody diarrhea
Conjunctivitis
Known as pinkeye, this condition makes your child's eyes look red and puffy. It's an inflammation of the eye's mucous membranes and usually affects both eyes at once but sometimes starts in one eye only. The cause can be a bacterial or viral infection: yellow or green drainage signals bacterial; no tearing or pus indicates viral. Another way to differentiate: viral infections usually come with cold symptoms. Both are very contagious and spread quickly.
How to treat: A viral infection usually clears up on its own within a week. Keep baby's eye area clean by gently washing it with warm water. If the infection is bacterial, your doctor will treat it with an antibiotic eyedrop. For either infection type, a warm compress will make your baby feel better.
When to call the doctor: As soon as symptoms appear. Consult a doctor to ensure the cause isn't bacterial and to get antibiotics if needed.