Infants Skin Conditions

When it comes to your baby's skin, you can depend on one thing: It's bound to erupt into a rash during the first year. Why? The human skin acts as a protective barrier against all sorts of elements, from sun to bacteria, but it takes about a year for that epidermis to get up to speed and function effectively, says Bernard Cohen, M.D., director of pediatric dermatology at Johns Hopkins Children's Center. It starts out thinner, has less pigment, and doesn't regulate temperature as well as the skin of bigger kids and adults. Of course, no baby escapes the most common skin issue--diaper rash. The diaper area is warm and moist, which breaks down the skin on that tender tush. Add irritating poop and pee and you've got the perfect environment for breakouts. Keep diaper rash under control by changing your baby often, using petroleum jelly or a barrier cream with zinc oxide to protect his bum, and letting his naked bottom air out occasionally (put a sheet on the floor and let him loose). Protect the rest of that fragile birthday suit with mild products, such as hypoallergenic and fragrance-free soaps, washes, and lotions. Once your baby turns 1, you can relax a little--his skin will be thicker and more rash-proof.

Intertrigo

What It Is: A rash found mainly in a baby's skin folds, especially in the neck. It usually appears in chubby babies under 6 months.
What It Looks Like: A red, raw, weepy rash that looks worse inside the skin creases. Your baby may not notice it at all or it may cause some pain, depending on the amount of skin-to-skin friction in the affected area.
What Causes It: Excessive moisture from drool and spitup that collect in your baby's creases, which don't get any air.
What to Do: Wash out the inside of your baby's skin folds with water and apply a zinc-oxide barrier cream or petroleum jelly to protect them, recommends Dan Brennan, M.D., a pediatrician in Santa Barbara, CA. As babies get older and more mobile--they crane their necks-intertrigo goes away.

Prickly Heat

What It Is: Also known as miliaria, prickly heat rash may occur on the face, neck, back, or bottom.
What It Looks Like: Tiny red bumps.
What Causes It: Since a baby's skin isn't able to regulate heat well, says Dr. Cohen, just about anything that overheats your little one--hot, humid weather; overbundling him in tight clothing; or a long, hot car ride while strapped in a car seat--can set off a prickly heat rash.
What to Do: Get your baby out of the heat and dress him in loose, cool clothing. The rash should look much better in about 30 minutes

Seborrhea

What It Is: A rash that can appear on the scalp and eyebrows (where it's known as cradle cap), behind the ears, or on the neck, cheeks, and chest. It's most common in babies under 6 months.
What It Looks Like: On the scalp and eyebrows, seborrhea looks like dandruff, although it can also appear like thick, yellow or crusty scales. Behind the ears, seborrhea tends to look cracked and scaly; on the chest and neck, it may be pimply, and on the cheeks, it's red and bumpy. It can be unsightly but probably won't bother your baby at all.
What Causes It: No one knows.
What to Do: The traditional remedy is to rub a little olive or baby oil on your baby's scalp to loosen the scales, then gently brush them off. Dr. Brennan also recommends washing the scalp, behind the ears, and any other spots with a small amount of anti-dandruff shampoo.

Eczema

What It Is: Eczema can appear anywhere on a baby's body starting around 3 or 4 months, though it's not usually found in the diaper area. Up to 20 percent of babies will develop this very itchy rash.
What It Looks Like:  In its mildest form, eczema erupts in dry, patchy areas on the skin. It can also look like a bad case of windburn and cause the skin to turn red, ooze pus, and crust over.
What Causes It: Anything can be a trigger for babies prone to eczema (those with a genetic predis-position or a family history of allergies). Hot weather can cause sweating, which irritates the skin; cold weather can dry it out. Soaps and clothing, especially wool, can also spark an outbreak.
What to Do: Wash the skin with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser--ask your pediatrician or dermatologist for a recommendation--and then slather moisturizer onto damp skin twice a day. For a more severe case, talk to your doctor about a steroid ointment, which will reduce the inflammation.

Contact Dermatitis

What It Is:  A skin reaction to something your baby came in contact with--from soaps and detergents to grass and other plants.
What It Looks Like: Red, itchy bumps at the contact site.
What Causes It: If the rash is all over your baby's body, then soap or detergent is probably to blame. If the chest and arms are affected, the culprit could be a new, unwashed shirt. Rashy legs? For some super-sensitive infants, all it takes is the unfamiliar texture of a rug or grass.
What to Do:  If the rash looks dry, moisturize it. If it's not bothering your baby, just remove the trigger (roll up the rug, wash the shirt, try a milder soap, a gentler laundry detergent). If the rash is itchy, talk to your doctor about a hydrocortisone cream or an antihistamine.

Refer:

• Baby Skin
• Baby Skin : FAQs
• Baby Skin Care : Sun Protection
• Newborn Skin : Common Issues
• Baby Skin : Sensitive Products
• Bathing And Soothing Your Baby`s Skin
• Diaper Rashes : Causes And Treatment
• Some Common Skin Rashes In Babies

Diarrhoea

How can I tell if my baby has diarrhoea?

Many parents worry that their baby has loose motions because newborns tend to have a lot of bowel movements. Your baby's potty will depend very much on whether she's being breastfed or formula fed. The stools of breastfed newborn babies are usually yellowish, on the soft or liquid side and may occur up to five times daily. The stools of formula-fed babies, on the other hand, tend to occur once a day and are fairly firm. Check out our baby potty visual guide for more information. 

Sometimes a breastfed baby will do potty during or immediately after each breastfeeding session. Within a month, most breastfed babies are down to one or two potties a day. Occasional loose stools are normal for both breastfed as well as formula-fed babies. But your baby may have diarrhoea if:

• she is passing stools more frequently than usual
• her stools are smelly, watery, and mucus-streaked (one doctor says it looks like you've blown your nose in your child's nappy)
• she has a fever or appears to be losing weight

In addition to this, your baby may be cranky and not eating well. See your doctor if you suspect your baby has diarrhoea. 

What causes diarrhoea in a baby?

The most common cause of loose motions is a virus called rotavirus. Rotavirus infects the gut causing gastroenteritis. This damages the inner lining of the intestine. The injured lining leaks fluid and allows food to pass through without absorbing any nutrients. Most children get affected by this virus a couple of times before they turn five. Children aged between 6 and 24 months are more likely to catch this virus as it gets tougher to maintain hygiene once they begin crawling.

Diarrhoea in babies can also be caused by:

• formula feeds, if they are not properly diluted
• colds
• antibiotics
• allergies
• food poisoning
• enzyme deficiencies in rare cases
• 
  

Can diarrhoea in a baby be prevented?

The organisms that cause diarrhoea can easily be passed from hand to mouth. So, proper hygiene can help prevent diarrhoea. Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 15 seconds with an antibacterial soap after handling soiled nappies or using the toilet. Keep non-alcoholic wipes handy and wipe your baby's hands frequently when she is crawling around. You could also use a damp washcloth for this purpose. 

How should I treat my baby's diarrhoea?

Make sure your baby drinks plenty of fluids to stop her from dehydrating. If your baby is taking her breast or formula feeds well, stick with them. In addition, older babies may be given sips of water, oral rehydration solution (ORS) or electrolyte solution. Coconut water (elaneer/naariyal pani) is a rich source of electrolytes. 

You can prepare ORS at home as well. Take one litre of water, boiled and then cooled. Stir in 8 teaspoons of sugar and one teaspoon of salt. Give her sips of this mixture every time she vomits and passes stool or urine. 

Babies older than 9 months can also have well-diluted fruit juices. Juices made with 1 part juice added to 10 parts water are ideal. If your child is reluctant to drink, she may prefer homemade ice lollies instead. But it is best not to use any artificial flavouring or food colours when you are making them. Avoid glucose drinks, fizzy drinks and undiluted fruit juices (concentrated sugar draws water into the intestine and can increase diarrhoea). 

Check with your paediatrician before giving your baby anything. Remember that you should not give any anti-diarrhoeal medicine to children below 12 years as they could have serious side-effects. Also avoid herbal remedies without consulting your paediatrician. 

Are breastfed babies less likely to get loose motions?

Yes. Breast-fed babies are better protected from infections that might come from drinking water or feeding bottles. Also, certain elements in breast milk can hinder the growth of the organisms that cause diarrhoea. 

Should I stop giving my baby solid foods if she has diarrhoea?

No. Unless your baby is vomiting frequently, you can continue giving her solid foods. If your child is six months or older you could try foods like bananas, rice, apple puree and dry toast. For an older baby or toddler you could try small amounts of chicken soup and starchy foods like mashed potatoes and pasta. Boiled rice and moong dal would work too. But don't worry if she doesn't want to eat. It's more important that she keeps taking fluids to avoid dehydration. 

When should I call the doctor if my baby has diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea can be worrying if it lasts more than a few hours, but it will usually clear up on its own. If your child is continually passing loose, smelly and watery stools more than 3-4 times in a few hours, call your doctor immediately. The biggest concern with diarrhoea is dehydration, so don't delay in calling your doctor if your child shows these signs of fluid loss:

• dry skin or lips
• listlessness
• tearless crying
• a sunken fontanelle
• discoloured hands and feet
• dark yellow urine or fewer wet nappies than usual

You should also consult your paediatrician if your child shows the following symptoms:

• refuses to drink water, milk, or any other fluid
• has a fever which lasts longer than 24 hours
• has blood in her stools
• has diarrhoea accompanied by vomiting, which lasts longer than 12 hours 
• has a swollen abdomen
• 
  

If your baby's uncomfortable during a bout of diarrhoea, try to comfort her as much as possible. Keep her dry. Be gentle when changing nappies since her delicate bottom may be raw from the frequent passing of stools. Use a barrier cream to prevent irritation if the diarrhoea lasts for more than a day. And try not to worry too much, with the right care, your baby will soon bounce back.

Newborn Skin: Common Issues

Common Skin Issues :
Due to their sensitivity, your baby's skin is more susceptible to various infections and skin issues. It can be a common issue and should not cause undue worry. However, if you realised that they are having frequent bouts of outbreaks or the skin problem do not seem to be receding, it is best to seek the advice of your doctor the soonest. Still, more often than not, it can be easily remedied or prevented. The key is to understand the type of skin issue that is happening to their skin.

Infantile Eczema

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin that causes itchiness and dry skin. In babies, it may start to show up only after two months old. Eczema comes and goes, often with differing severity, but it is treatable and some children eventually outgrow it, though some others may carry it to adulthood or develop other atopic illnesses like allergy and asthma.

• Symptoms

The first sign of eczema is often patches of red, leathery skin which may appear anywhere on the body. Although it is not localised and may spread to other parts of the body - especially around the folds of the skin, behind the knees, and the nappy area - it is more commonly found on baby's cheeks, neck folds and joints of the limbs. This can sometimes be mistaken for heat rash. Eczema results in extremely dry and sensitive skin so you may find baby being unusually irritable and often attempting to scratch at the affected areas.

• Causes

1. Allergens. Eczema causes baby's skin to be highly sensitive to minute dust particles like air pollutants, dust mites, pollens, moulds, and pet dander.Parents who suffer from eczema often pass it on to their child. Aside from hereditary cause, eczema, an atopy illness, may also be triggered by a variety of irritants that result in a reaction in the body's immune system. Some of these irritants include:
2. Weather. Climate and temperature changes and high humidity can trigger infant eczema because baby's skin perspires less effectively, thus it is also less efficient in regulating the body temperature.
3. Diet. Some food are known to cause skin reactions in babies, particularly citrus fruits (e.g. orange), dairy products (e.g. milk, egg, peanut, chocolate), and seafood (e.g. shrimp). Food colouring and preservatives can also cause eczema.
4. Clothing. Babies with eczema should avoid clothing made from wool and lycra as they tend to irritate the skin.
5. Toiletries and detergents. Everything from body lotion, bath foam, perfume, to the type of laundry detergent and hand soap you use on and around baby can cause eczema to flare up because of the harsh chemical components in these products.

• Who is more prone to eczema?

If you have a family history of atopy illnesses such as eczema, allergies and asthma, there is a 50% chance of your child inheriting it. Babies with dry and sensitive skin are also prone to eczema.

• Treatment

Eczema is treatable with over-the-counter liniment such as a mild topical steroid like hydrocortisone cream. Steroidal creams helps soothe the itch and reduce the redness by reducing inflammation but this should be used sparingly as it can lead to thinning of the skin if overused. Hydrocortisone should generally be avoided for use on children under 10 years old so use only as directed or prescribed by doctors and use sparingly. If you are unsure, always check with the doctor. For more serious cases of eczema, antibiotics may be recommended if there is an infection. Your doctor may also prescribe oral antihistamine to relieve the itch.

• Prevention

1. Taking a bath once a day helps keep baby cool but be careful not to use water that is too hot as high temperature can cause eczema to flare up. Keep bath time under 10 minutes using only lukewarm water.

2. Choose bath products wisely and use only those that are mild, unscented, and hypoallergenic. You may also use an oatmeal-based bath lotion to help relieve the itch. Bubble baths are not suitable for babies in general.

3. When drying off baby, simply pat down with a towel as rubbing causes friction which may aggravate the skin problem. Pay extra attention to the folds of the skin.

4. Daily moisturising helps keep baby's skin well-moisturised as it dehydrates easily. Pick a good moisturiser containing petroleum jelly for best effect and apply immediately after a bath while the skin is still wet for best absorption.

5. Dress baby comfortably. Loose-fitting - but not oversized - cotton garments are best in minimising skin irritation caused by chaffing. New clothes should always be washed prior to first wear.

6. Scratching can aggravate existing rash. To prevent baby from scratching, trim and file baby's nails regularly.

7. When putting baby to bed, dress baby sensibly to keep him cool and comfortable. Fleece blankets and quilts make nice gifts but are often unsuitable for the high humidity of equatorial countries.

8. Clean baby's bedroom and play areas regularly, especially if you have a pet, and sun baby's bedding often. Dust mites and pet dander are common triggers of eczema. Remove objects like a fluffy stuffed toy or a carpet that trap dust readily.

9. Avoid bringing baby from a cold place to a hot one (and vice versa) as abrupt changes in temperature can cause eczema to flare up.

• When to see the doctor

Severe eczema can result in scaly skin and rashes with pus-filled bumps. This is an indication of bacterial infection and requires proper medical treatment. You should also avoid having baby come in physical contact with persons with open wounds and cold sores (also known as oral herpes).

Diaper Rash 

Diaper rash is a mild form of skin irritation associated with diaper-wearing. It results in reddish patches limited to the diaper area and is common amongst diaper-wearing babies and infants, and even those on cloth nappies. Symptoms of a diaper rash are usually mild and should clear up by practicing good hygiene.

• Symptoms

The first sign of a diaper rash is red patchy skin on and around the genitalia and buttocks. This may erupt into small bumps if not treated promptly.

• Causes

Diaper rash ensues for a variety of reasons, the most common being prolonged wearing of a wet and soiled diaper. Diaper rash arise due to moisture and bacteria that harbour within the diaper and on the skin. Wet skin breaks down easily and is prone to chafing, and yeast and bacterial infections. Skin irritation can also occur when a diaper is worn too tightly, causing the elastic bands to cut the skin of the baby.

• Who is more prone?

Babies who are on antibiotics may suffer from a bout of diarrhea which will increase the chances of contracting diaper rash. Some babies may also be more sensitive to particular brands of diaper, laundry detergent, and wet wipe that you use.

• Prevention

Diaper rash may cause discomfort to the baby but it is a fairly mild condition which does not require a visit to the doctor. It should heal nicely if you pay attention to the following:

1. Always wash your hands with soap before and after changing baby's diaper to prevent transmitting more bacteria to baby's bottom.

2. Change a wet or soiled diaper promptly.

3. Cleaning baby's bottom with cotton wool and warm water is sufficient. If you are using wet wipes, choose one that is free from fragrance and alcohol as these are drying agents. Over cleansing can cause irritation as baby's skin is very gentle.

4. Always pat dry baby's bottom thoroughly before putting on a fresh diaper.

5. 15 minutes of daily airing is beneficial in keeping baby's bottom fresh and dry.

6. Applying a good barrier cream, such as one with zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, will help soothe the rash. Barrier creams are readily available at pharmacies.

7. Diaper should be fitted on snugly - not too tight that it cuts into the skin or too loose that causes leakage. 8. Adults' and baby's clothes should be washed separately using appropriate detergent. Baby laundry detergent is gentler and free from chemicals that may cause irritation to baby's skin.

• When to visit the doctor

Diaper rash rarely requires a visit to the doctor unless the bumps become yellowish and filled with pus or if fever follows.

Heat Rash

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, is a very itchy form of skin rash that is caused by a blockage of the sweat glands due to excessive perspiration. It may recur from time to time, particularly when the weather is hot and humid, but it is not known to have any long term ill effects.

• Symptoms

Tiny red bumps appear all over the skin when babies develop heat rash. Lesions of rashes commonly appear around the neck, folds of the arms and legs and the armpits where most perspiration takes place, though it may also be widespread across the body.

• Causes

As its name implies, heat rash is typically caused by high humidity. Hot weather puts a strain on your baby's underdeveloped sweat glands as he is unable to regulate his body heat efficiently. An overdressed baby can also suffer from heat rash.

• Treatment

It is not necessary to give your child any medication for heat rash. The key treatment is in keeping your baby cool and comfortable by removing excessive clothing and minimising body heat.

• Prevention

1. Taking a bath twice a day helps keep baby cool but be careful not to use water that is too hot as high temperature can cause rashes to flare up. Keep bath time under 10 minutes using only lukewarm water.

2. Choose bath products wisely and use only those that are mild, unscented, and hypoallergenic. You may also use an oatmeal-based bath lotion to help relieve the itch. Alternatively, add some household table salt to a tub of water and dissolve it completely before bringing baby to the bath. Salt has anti-bacterial effects but take care not to scrub the skin.

3. When drying off baby, simply pat down with a towel as rubbing causes friction which may aggravate the skin problem. Pay extra attention to the folds of the skin.

4. Daily moisturising helps keep baby's skin well-moisturised. Pick a good moisturiser containing petroleum jelly for best effect and apply immediately after a bath while the skin is still wet for best absorption.

5. Do not use talcum powder - or snake powder - to relieve itch on your baby as he may breathe in the fine particles of the powder.

6. A post-bath or pre-bedtime massage is great for relaxing your baby and improving blood circulation. Simply apply some baby oil and gentle strokes to help baby calm down and sleep better.

7. Dress baby comfortably. Loose-fitting - but not oversized - cotton garments are best in minimising skin irritation caused by chaffing. Do not over swaddle your newborn.

8. New clothes should always be washed prior to first wear. Remember to remove clothes tags that may irritate the skin. Check for embellishments and stitching that may also irritate the skin.

9. Scratching can aggravate an existing rash. To prevent baby from scratching, trim and file baby's nails regularly and put on mittens. If your baby has outgrown the mittens, try putting on a pair of comfortable, snugly-fitted long socks on the hands so baby can't pull them off.

10. Dress baby sensibly for bed to keep him cool and comfortable. Fleece blankets and quilts make nice gifts but are often unsuitable for the high humidity of equatorial countries.

11. Keep your baby in a cool environment with ample air circulation and breeze. If you have to bring baby out in the day, remember to put on a hat and slap some sun screen on baby's face, hands and legs.

• When to visit the doctor

Heat rash may be mild but infection can set in when there is excessive scratching. Broken skin from incessant scratching can lead to bacterial infection. This may result in the development of pus-filled blisters, swelling, or crusting of the skin, which calls for a visit to the doctor. Watch out also for signs of increased irritability, crying, lethargy, loss of appetite and fever.

Jaundice

Jaundice is a common occurrence amongst newborns because of their inability to remove a chemical known as bilirubin, a byproduct of the red blood cells. This results in a yellowish tint on the baby's skin and eyes. Jaundice typically shows up from the second day onwards. In many cases, the condition is mild and eventually goes away by itself by the second week but if severe, immediate treatment is required.

• Symptoms

Checking for jaundice is routinely performed by the pediatrician prior to baby's discharge from the hospital and again 3 to 5 days later when bilirubin level is at its peak. Yellow coloration on the face and eyes is the first telltale sign of jaundice. This coloration will spread down to the feet when there is an increase in bilirubin level.

• Causes

Before a child is born, bilirubin in the foetal blood is removed by the mother's liver. However, a newborn's liver takes a couple of days to reach maturity and is hence unable to process bilirubin fully. Excess bilirubin in the blood stream causes the skin to turn yellow.

• Who is more prone?

Asian babies are more prone to jaundice compared to non-Asians. Within the population, however, jaundice occurs regardless of race or ethnicity. Some babies are more susceptible to the condition because of a variety of reasons, such as:

 Family history of jaundice

 Prematurity

 G6PD deficiency

 Poor feeding (especially if breastfed)

 Breast feeding

• Treatment

Especially in the first few days of birth, breastfed babies should be nursed frequently in order for bilirubin to be passed out of the body in the stools. (Baby's stools should look bright yellow.) This also helps the mother establish her milk production.

High levels of bilirubin can lead to brain damage. Babies with jaundice may need tubes or treated using phototherapy. While administering the light therapy, the baby is dressed only in a diaper and eyeshades.

• Prevention

There is no known prevention for jaundice. However, you should never self-treat and place baby in direct sunlight.

• When to see the doctor

You should revisit the pediatrician if jaundice does not go away after two weeks or if your baby is extremely fussy or appears listless and has poor appetite.

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is a form of skin inflammation known as seborrheic dermatitis. It typically appears on a newborn's scalp but may also show up elsewhere on the face, particularly around the eyes, nose, and ears, and also around skin folds. This is a harmless skin condition that should go away on its own without any - or little - treatment within a couple of months.

• Symptoms

Cradle cap is characterised by a yellow scaling of the skin and may appear oily, crusty, and patchy. It may be mistaken for dandruff because of the dry, flaky skin, and may result in itchiness of the scalp.

• Causes

Although seborrheic dermatitis inflammation is the result of overactive oil glands, maternal hormones have often been blamed for the cause of cradle cap. Excessive oil formed in a newborn's scalp show up as a buildup of waxy, dead cells but this can also develop into a rash.

• Treatment

Cradle cap seldom requires any treatment because it is a relatively mild condition. There is no need for off-the-shelf products or medication as it will eventually resolve on its own. However, you can improve the condition by observing the following when washing baby's hair: 18

1. 15 to 30 minutes prior to bath time, apply a moderate amount of baby oil, olive oil, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly to the affected areas. Massage the scalp gently, taking care to avoid the eyes.

2. Leave the application on for at least 15 minutes to ensure that it is absorbed by the scaly skin.

3. During bath, exfoliate the scalp by wetting it and gently brushing away the top layer of dead skin using a soft bristled hair brush or toothbrush. Do not attempt to peel off the crusty bits with your nails.

4. For facial area, use a damp cloth to clean away the application, again taking care to avoid the eyes.

5. Use a regular baby shampoo to wash baby's hair as per normal. You may wish to purchase a mild anti-dandruff shampoo suitable for baby.

6. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Do not rub.

7. Ensure that you do not leave traces of oil on baby's head and face as this may clog up the pores and worsen the condition.

• When to see the doctor

It is not necessary to see the doctor unless the cradle cap causes an itch or spreads to other sites apart from the scalp. You should seek a doctor's advice if there is no marked improvement or if the condition worsens after self-treatment. This could be an underlying case of deeper infection where the doctor may suggest a cortisone cream or a special seborrhea shampoo as part of the treatment.

Milia

Milia are tiny white bumps that commonly appear on a newborn's face, usually on the cheeks and nose, but can also be found on the gums. Apart for aesthetics, these spots are harmless and do not pose any health problems.

• Symptoms

Milia appear as tiny white bumps, mostly on the face and occasionally on the gums. These pimple-like bumps usually disappear within weeks of birth.

• Causes

Milia is the result of your baby's oil glands becoming blocked by skin flakes (or dead skin) near the skin surface. It is not a symptom of any underlying skin disease.

• Treatment

No treatment is required for milia. They usually fade away within weeks of birth when the dead skin wears off and when your baby's oil glands gradually open up. You should not attempt to squeeze the bumps, apply any ointment or scrub your baby's face as these may result in scarring and skin irritation.

Sun Burn

Sunburn is the result of overexposure in the sun and can take place within 30 minutes of exposure. It happens when harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation penetrates the skin, causing a skin inflammation. Sunburn is also responsible for the premature aging and wrinkling of the skin. In severe cases, it can cause skin cancer.

• Symptoms

The first sign of sunburn is redness of the skin. This usually shows up within two hours of being in the sun without any protection. Within 24 hours, the skin may start to sting, peel, and itch.

• Causes

Sunburn is caused by prolonged unprotected exposure in the sun.

• Who is more prone?

Newborns and infants under six months old are extremely sensitive to the sun as they tend to burn easily. Persons of white skin tone, as well as those living close to the equator and in places of high altitudes are also more likely to get sunburns.

• Treatment

1. For mild sunburns, sponge down the sunburned areas using a damp cloth for about 15 minutes regularly throughout the day. Do not rub the skin and ensure that baby does not catch a chill in the process.

2. A cool bath can also help soothe baby's skin. Avoid adding salt, bubble bath, and any harsh body wash as these may aggravate the condition. Apply moisturiser immediately after a bath.

3. Ensure that baby is breastfed often or given water to keep hydrated following sunburn.

• Prevention

Regular protection against the sun should begin early. Even on a cloudy day, UV radiation is at its strongest between 10am and 5pm. Infants should never be exposed to direct sunlight and if the need arises to bring baby out of the house during midday, you should take the following precautions:

1. Apply sunscreen generously on baby, (minimum more than 6 months old), 20 minutes before stepping out of the house, paying extra attention to the nose, cheeks, and forehead. Choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, of SPF 30 and above, one that blocks out both UVA and UVB rays, and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient.

2. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours as activities such as perspiring and swimming can wear off the protection from the skin.

3. Ensure that baby is sufficiently - but not overly - clothed before going out. Choose cotton clothes that are loose-fitting.

4. Even with sunscreen slapped on, it is advisable to stay in the shade under an umbrella, a wide-brimmed hat that shades the neck, or in the shade of the pram.

5. Try to walk under shady spots. Stay away from the road or sand as the sun can reflect off floor surfaces.

• When to see the doctor

If fever, vomiting, or blisters result following a sunburn, see the doctor immediately.

Refer :

• 10 Tips For Breastfeeding Parents
• Baby`s Daily Massage
• Bathing Your Baby
• Switching From Breast To Cow Milk
• Baby Sleep Tips
• Breastfeeding FAQs

Common Cold In Children

What causes common cold? Many believe that hundreds of cold viruses cause infection in the upper respiratory system which in turn brings about common cold. Likely casualties of the infection are noses, throats and ears. Although the most common of these viruses has been identified and known as rhinovirus, the sheer number of cold viruses has made it difficult to find the one dose or vaccination that can effectively prevent or arrest cold. The natural immune
system of the human body, harnessing the full force of its white cells, is still the best anti-dote for common cold.


Persons infected by cold viruses scatter the disease when they cough or sneeze. Coughing or sneezing causes the infected person to splutter saliva and sticky liquid called mucus. This liquid contains the virus. When microscopic amounts of the liquid contaminate the surroundings, such as the air or personal items like towels or handkerchiefs, people who come into contact with them become vulnerable to the infection. The virus gets transmitted through the air we breath or through our unclean hands when we touch our noses.

.
While the act of coughing and sneezing gives rise to the viral contagion, it is also the same process by which persons afflicted with cold prevent the virus from infecting the other parts of the body. The concentration of the cold virus inside the nose and the hostile reaction of the white cells create irritating sensations that prompt the nerves to summon a sudden blast of air from the lungs, sweeping the virus out of the way.


But cold viruses are tenacious. Although of infinitesimal sizes and invisible to the naked eye, they are equipped with mooring contraptions which aid them to fasten themselves onto the interior parts of the nose. They then begin to overpower the cells along the lining of the nose, making it possible for them to multiply even more. The viral assault prompts our white cells to react and fight, often emerging victorious in a week of deadly scuffle.


This explains why after several days we feel relieved from common cold even without medication. Our anti-bodies are hard at work in our defense. Common cold is rather of greater concern to children, whose immune systems are less developed than those of adults. Cold sends children to the doctor more than any other illness does. Research data reveal that a child contracts the cold virus more or less eight times per year, with each infection lasting up to an
average of seven days.


It takes three or two days for the symptoms of the disease to emerge when the cold virus infects children. The afflicted child becomes bad-tempered; he or she complains of various discomforts and pain such as sore throat, headache, muscle pain, among many others. He or she feels weak and physically drained. The child often coughs and sneezes, develops runny nose or gets the nasal cavities congested. In some cases cold in children can cause fever and body chills. As cold viruses have definite life cycles, drugs are hardly effective in speeding up the process of a child's recovery from cold virus infection. But medicines can help arrest further spread of the virus and make the child feel more comfortable.


Although cold is common, children would do well not to take medicine without proper advice. Parents need to be guided by what the doctor prescribes and to oversee the dosage and drugs to be taken by their children. Decongestants ease the irritation and swelling of the nose lining,making it easier for children to breathe. Antihistamines slows down mucus and helps to control sneezing and runny nose. Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen can be taken when the child feels severe headache and muscle pain.


Aside from medication, food and other forms of treatment can help the child recover quickly from cold. Hot food and drinks help ease throat irritation and coughs. Chicken soup in particular has been known for generations to be effective in providing relief from common cold. Hot showers can freshen stuffy nose. Heat from whatever source induces nasal mucus to dry up.
Humidifiers work to loosen the mucus too and ease the irritation brought about by itchy eyes, scratchy and stuffy throats.


Children also need to blow air from the nose frequently to get the mucus out of their body. Using disposable tissues rather than handkerchiefs is better for nose blowing. Above all, total bed rest for one or two days is recommended for children hit by the cold virus. It takes proper nutrition, physical fitness through exercise, adequate sleep and other practices of healthy living to hasten the full development of the immune system. It still is the child's best defense against common cold.