generalpediatrics

[generalpediatrics]

Diarrhoea in Babies- How to Take Care?

Is your kid having diarrhoea and you don’t know what to do? Here’s a quick brief on diarrhoea in babies and how to take care of it.

About Diarrhoea in Babies

Diarrhoea is having 3 or more, watery or very loose bowel movements in a day. ‘Having diarrhoea more than 10 times a day indicates severe diarrhoea, shares General pediatric doctor in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani. Both breastfed and formula-fed babies can have acute diarrhoea because of a viral (like rotavirus), bacterial (like Salmonella), or parasitic (like giardia) infection or as a side effect of antibiotics. They may even be suffering from recurrent diarrhoea because of an allergy to cow’s milk or lactose intolerance.  

How to Take Care of Diarrhoea in Babies?

As a parent or caretaker of your baby, it’s your responsibility to keep your child hydrated with feed or oral rehydration solution. But to avoid worsening diarrhoea, you have to avoid giving sugar-loaded drinks to your baby. If your baby eats semi-solid food, you should make your baby eat starchy foods or easy-to-digest foods. Before and after a change of diaper, proper hygiene and cleanliness are a must.

When to Seek Advice from a Pediatric Doctor?

Get your baby to visit the general pediatrician doctor in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani, if your baby:

Has persistent or severe diarrhoea- Seek medical advice, when a baby is having diarrhoea lasting for a couple of days or worse than before.

Show signs of dehydration- Immediately take your baby to a doctor, if your baby is wetting diapers less often, passing dark urine, has no tears and a very dry mouth, is lethargic, or has a sunken fontanelle (soft spot).

Has concerning signs other than diarrhoea- Consult with a child specialist right away if your baby is having fever, frequent vomits, persistent stomach pain, blood in stool, or other concerning symptoms.

For more details, meet Dr. Promilla Butani,the best child specialist doctor in Delhi with over 45 years of experience, today to give your child the best care for their overall development and enhancing health.

[generalpediatrics]

How to Clean Your Baby's Smelly Navel?

The umbilical cord is a life-saving link between a mother and baby during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients. After the baby is fully born, the cord gets cut, leaving behind a little stump, which will eventually dry and fall off within days, generally between 7 and 14 days. In this period, it’s quite common for the umbilical stump to emit a slight smell. According to a top pediatrician in Delhi, if a baby’s navel smells bad after the cord has fallen, this could signify a potential problem.

Why Does a Newborn’s Navel Smell?

Cursing a newborn just after birth might be due to carrying the odors from the amniotic fluid and the secretions of the birth canal. They usually wash off when bathing, but are excluded near the umbilical area. The remaining stump can create a mild smell while drying; this is usually harmless. However, after the cord falls off, a constant, unpleasant smell may lead to an infection.

Symptoms of infection involve discoloration, swelling, pus (yellowish or green in color), warmth around the navel, fussiness, poor feeding, and sometimes fever. 

Rarely, an umbilical hernia may also contribute to infection and smell. Always keep an eye on your baby while they act out of character; excessive sleeping, becoming a picky eater, or discomfort when touched close to their navels are sure signs that one has to rush to the doctor immediately.

How To Clean a Newborn's Umbilical Cord?

Wash your hands before and after touching the baby's navel.

Pat dry with a clean towel

Fold down the diaper to expose the stump for air circulation

Never pull the stump off; it will fall off when ready

If the stump is soiled, wash it with water (use soap only if necessary) and dry thoroughly

Wash the area around the base of the cord with plain water during bathing; avoid using alcohol, creams, or antiseptics.

What To Do After the Cord Falls Off?

A small amount of discharge, a dark spot, or slight redness may be visible once the stump falls off; this is very common, so it's best to keep the area dry and clean. If necessary, use a warm, damp cotton ball to gently wipe away the discharge, and use a new cotton ball for each cleaning.

When to Consult a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if your baby: 

Has fever 

Has cloudy or constant discharge 

Shows redness or swelling around the navel 

Becomes overly fussy or lethargic and refuses to take feeds.

A navel that smells a little in newborns is generally normal, but prevention is the key. The best preventive care is keeping the area clean and dry. Always watch for warning signs and consult a doctor if you notice anything unusual. 

Seeking more newborn care tips or assistance from a Top Pediatric Doctor in Delhi, such as Dr. Promilla Butani, can also be helpful. She has assisted parents in providing advice on how to care for their baby's health and even offered treatments to ensure their baby's navel area and overall well-being. Consult her for details.

[generalpediatrics]

Why Is Breastfeeding and Mother's Milk Important for Baby Development

Are you an expectant mother or a new parent who has just welcomed a baby into your family? You need to feed your baby well with milk. As per a renowned general pediatrician in Delhi, the best nutritional choice for all infants is breast milk. However, breastfeeding a baby may not be possible for every mother. In that case, formula feed is a healthy alternative to nourish and nurture the baby and allow the baby to grow and thrive.

This post explores the benefits of feeding milk to a baby. Read on to know the importance of breastfeeding and the milking of the baby.

Breastfeeding provides colostrum.

Breast milk that is first produced by a mother after giving birth to a child is called colostrum. Colostrum is produced by the breasts for the first few days after the mother gives birth. It is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, which are essential for strengthening the baby's immune system and the overall growth and development of a newborn.

Breast milk helps prevent and fight gastrointestinal infections.

Breastfeeding a baby is important as the breast milk contains proteins, sugar, fats, and also white blood cells that keep the baby healthy during their vulnerable early months. It has immunoglobulins that protect the baby from many chronic illnesses.

Breastfeeding allows the baby to have more of the leptin.

Leptin is a hormone that regulates appetite and fat storage in the body. So, with breast milk, babies can self-regulate their milk consumption and have healthy weight gain.

Breast milk has a role in boosting a baby's physical development.

Breast milk allows the growth of the baby's bones and muscles. Also, the development of the baby's digestive system and the overall development of the brain. Experts believe that breastfeeding a baby can enhance their intelligence, judgment, memory, and problem-solving abilities.

To Know More, Book Your Consultation With A General Pediatrician in Delhi

If you have any queries on how to navigate life with a new baby, meet our best Baby Pediatrician in South Delhi and general pediatrician in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani, who can guide you on breastfeeding and provide support and advice on how to maintain a healthy milk supply for your baby to ensure your baby's proper growth and development. Reach out to us and schedule a consultation today.

[generalpediatrics]

Expert Pediatric Care for Childhood Infections and Preventative Health

Every parent knows how challenging it can be when your child falls ill. Whether it's a common cold, an ear infection, or something more serious, childhood infections can cause stress and anxiety in parents. This can be quite concerning, especially for new parents, as they won’t know what to do about it. But with expert guidance from a pediatrician in South Delhi, parents can ensure their child receives the best care to recover quickly and stay healthy.

A child specialist can help you navigate childhood illnesses with a focus on both treatment and preventive care. In this blog, we’ll explore how expert pediatric care can make a huge difference in managing infections and promoting long-term health for children.

Understanding Common and Manageable Infections in Children

Children are more prone to infection due to their developing immune systems. Yes, kids are born with weak immune systems, which exposes them to various infections. However, many common infections can be managed effectively with the right treatment and preventative measures. Here are a few that parents often encounter:

Common Cold and Flu: These are viral infections that can cause fever, cough and, in most cases, runny nose as well. These are easily manageable with doctor-prescribed antibiotics and proper rest and hydration.

Ear Infections: These are very common in newborns. A newborn baby is born with interconnected food, throat and ear tubes. Since babies are very small, they cannot control the passing down of food until a few months. So, when babies are breastfeeding, some milk accidentally slips into the ear tube and eventually causes infection. Depending on the severity, the pediatrician will prescribe antibiotics.

Gastrointestinal Infections: Again, babies are born with weak digestive systems, just like underdeveloped immune systems. Therefore, they have a hard time digesting their food. This can lead to stomach infection, and have issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Make sure to consult an expert pediatrician for suitable treatment.

Preventative Care for Healthy Childhood

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to your child’s health. Regular check-ups and vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your child from serious diseases and infections. Make sure your child has proper:

Vaccinations: Vaccines are important in protecting your child from diseases like measles, polio, and pneumonia.

Regular Check-ups: Regular pediatric visits help monitor your child’s growth, detect potential health concerns early, and keep up with vaccinations.

Hygiene Education: Teaching children good hygiene practices, like washing hands regularly and covering their mouths while sneezing. All of these will help prevent the spread of infections.

Consult The General Pediatrician Doctor in Delhi

When it comes to your child's health, you want an expert who can offer both immediate care for infections and long-term preventative guidance. A general pediatrician doctor in Delhi, like Dr. Promilla Butani, provides complete care that covers all aspects of your child’s health. With years of experience, the pediatric doctor specializes in both acute care for childhood infections and preventative health strategies to ensure long-term wellness.

[generalpediatrics]

Why Is Breastfeeding and Mother's Milk Important for Baby Development

Are you an expectant mother or a new parent who has just welcomed a baby into your family? You need to feed your baby well with milk. As per the general pediatrician in Delhi, the best nutritional choice for all infants is breast milk. However, breastfeeding a baby may not be possible for every mother. In that case, formula feed is a healthy alternative to nourish and nurture the baby and allow the baby to grow and thrive.

This post explores the benefits of feeding milk to a baby. Read on to know the importance of breastfeeding and the milking of the baby.

Breastfeeding provides colostrum.

Breast milk that is first produced by a mother after giving birth to a child is called colostrum. Colostrum is produced by the breasts for the first few days after the mother gives birth. It is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, which are essential for strengthening the baby's immune system and the overall growth and development of a newborn.

Breast milk helps prevent and fight gastrointestinal infections.

Breastfeeding a baby is important as the breast milk contains proteins, sugar, fats, and also white blood cells that keep the baby healthy during their vulnerable early months. It has immunoglobulins that protect the baby from many chronic illnesses.

Breastfeeding allows the baby to have more of the leptin.

Leptin is a hormone that regulates appetite and fat storage in the body. So, with breast milk, baby can self-regulate their milk consumption and have healthy weight gain.

Breast milk has a role in boosting a baby's physical development.

Breast milk allows the growth of the baby's bones and muscles. Also, the development of the baby's digestive system and the overall development of the brain. Experts believe that breastfeeding a baby can enhance their intelligence, judgment, memory, and problem-solving abilities.

Meet a Child Doctor Today.

If you have any queries on how to navigate life with a new baby, meet our best child specialist and general pediatrician in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani, who can guide you on breastfeeding and provide support and advice on how to maintain a healthy milk supply for your baby to ensure your baby's proper growth and development. Reach out to us and schedule a consultation today.

[generalpediatrics]

Why Child Vaccination Must Not Be Skipped?

Parents or caregivers of a child should maintain a vaccination record and ensure that the child is receiving recommended vaccinations at the right times. The majority of child specialists and the parents/caretakers work together to ensure that child vaccinations are not delayed or skipped. However, some parents or caretakers turn out to be careless regarding a child’s existing and long-term health. They may be so busy that they miss out on their child’s immunization schedules or they may totally refuse to get their child immunized. As per top 10 General pediatric doctors in Delhi,  parental refusal of vaccines could be because of negative beliefs or myths about vaccinations; the role of influential leaders; mistrust in healthcare providers or the system; concerns about vaccine safety; geographical barriers; or vaccines' high price.  

It's important to note that skipping or delaying a child's vaccination can have many repercussions.

Here’s why skipping child vaccination must be avoided:

Risk of Falling Seriously Ill- Vaccines stimulate the child’s immune system response to specific diseases. It helps the child quickly fight off an infection when exposed to a foreign agent-causing disease. This way, the child has less risk of contracting disease and falling sick or even meeting death. 

Vulnerability to Vaccine-Preventable Illnesses- Infants are most susceptible to illnesses as their immune system has not yet developed completely. With vaccines, they remain protected from many serious illnesses.

High Chances of Outbreaks- When a number of vaccinated people are more in a community, this creates herd immunity which further can protect even the non-vaccinated people including infants and sick people. Thus, if every parent seriously follows the recommended vaccination schedule, the community will be protected as a whole. There will be fewer to no outbreaks. 

Costlier Treatment of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases- Vaccines prevent the child from requiring expensive and time-taking, hospitalisation and medical care for vaccine-preventable diseases. 

If searching for a pediatrician who provides all child vaccinations, visit Dr. Butani Pediatric Practise.

At Dr. Butani Pediatric Practise, consult with Dr. Promilla Butani, the best pediatrician in South Delhi, and get all your concerns about vaccinations cleared. We will make sure that your child's health remains protected for long-term. 

[generalpediatrics]

Expert Care for Your Child’s Ear Infections in Delhi

Children are an easy target for various infections, especially Ear Infections. This is because they are born with weaker immune systems, which is called innate immunity. Their immunity does not fully develop until they are 7-8 years old.  In addition to that, as per the NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) report, about 80% of children are diagnosed with ear infections before school age. This makes ear infections a concern worth seeking professional help. Thus, the post throws light on expert care for ear infections from the top pediatric doctor in Delhi. 

Understanding Ear Infections in Children

Ear infections, medically known as otitis media, are quite a common infection in children and often occur when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear. This infection can lead to pain, fluid buildup, and sometimes, in severe cases, even hearing issues. Here’s why ear infections are so common in kids:

Frequent colds: Ear infections are usually an outcome of colds or respiratory infections. So, if your child has frequent colds or other respiratory infections, then they might be prone to ear infections.

Eustachian tube dysfunction: Children’s Eustachian tubes, a tube that connects the middle ear to the throat, are smaller and more horizontal. This can make them more prone to blockages and potentially lead to ear infections.

Weakened immune system: As mentioned earlier, children’s immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to infections. 

Signs of an Ear Infection in Your Child:

Your child might have a mild to high fever in case of an ear infection.

They might be tugging or pulling at their ears due to infection-infused discomfort.

The child might even have some hearing problems as well.

Ear infections can also make children cranky or unusually fussy. 

In some cases, you might also notice fluid leaking out of the ear. 

Available Treatment Options for Ear Infections

Treatment for ear infections in children will significantly vary based on severity and type of infection. 

For mild ear infections or pain, you can use a warm cloth over the ear to soothe the pain.

If the ear infection is caused by bacteria, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Certain ear drops may be recommended for treating pain and inflammation. 

In some mid cases, some over-the-counter medication can also provide comfort to your child.

However, it is highly essential for parents to take their kids to see a child specialist for a better and more effective ear infection diagnosis and treatment. 

Preventing Future Ear Infections

Famous as it is, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some helpful tips to prevent ear infections:

For newborns, make sure to breastfeed your baby to boost their immune system.

Avoid smoking near your child, as it can increase the risk of ear infections.

Ensure your child gets vaccinated to prevent infections like the flu and pneumonia, which can lead to ear problems. 

Maintain proper hygiene and teach your child to wash their hands properly.

Consult A General Pediatrician Doctor in Delhi

When dealing with your child’s health, trust is key. So, always go with a trusted pediatrician or child specialist doctor. If you are interested, you can consult Dr. Promilla Butani, an experienced general pediatrician in Delhi. She has over 52 years of experience in treating childhood illnesses and newborn immunization. She will make sure to offer personalized care that focuses on your child’s comfort and well-being. 

[generalpediatrics]

Effective Tips To Handle an Overweight Baby 

Whoever looks at a fat baby finds them cute and healthy. However, this is, in fact, considered unhealthy, and parents should give some extra time to maintain their baby’s weight. During pregnancy, the growth of the baby is taken into consideration. The doctor also keeps a note of the baby’s growth during pregnancy, and they also keep track of the baby’s development. However, if you find any changes in the baby’s growth, development or weight, you can seek the help of a Best pediatrician in South Delhi.. Let us take a closer look at some effective tips that can help manage a baby's weight. 

Here are Some Tips to Handle a Baby’s Weight 

Overweight babies have a high risk of health problems in childhood, which also continue in later years. These include high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Following are some tips recommended by a pediatrician to handle a baby’s weight: 

1. Avoid Overfeeding the Baby

Overfeeding the baby can cause discomfort as they are too small to digest the breast milk or formula properly. An overfed baby can swallow air, which can cause discomfort and gas and can make them cry. 

2. Feed Healthy Solids

Make sure the child eats healthy meals, snacks or drinks. Give your child protein-rich and nutritious food with low sugar intake. 

3. Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding the baby is beneficial for both the mother and the baby. Mothers get rid of their pregnancy weight more quickly if they breastfeed, whereas the baby gets healthy food that is digestible and healthy for the baby. Parents should also avoid feeding their babies solid food until they turn six months old. Introducing solids to the baby too early can make them put on weight. Research indicated that breastfeeding tends to reduce the risk of childhood obesity.

Therefore, by following these tips, you can help your baby achieve a healthy weight. However, if you have questions about your baby’s weight and nutrition, you can seek help from a leading pediatrician. You can make an appointment with Dr. Promilla Butani, a renowned pediatrician in Delhi, at Dr. Promilla Butani's Pediatrics Practice. 

She looks after all general pediatric issues, such as allergies, childhood obesity, child development and more. For more details, visit Dr. Promilla Butani's Pediatrics Practice. 

[generalpediatrics]

Diarrhoea in Babies- How to Take Care?

Is your kid having diarrhoea and you don’t know what to do? Here’s a quick brief on diarrhoea in babies and how to take care of it.

About Diarrhoea in Babies

Diarrhoea is having 3 or more, watery or very loose bowel movements in a day. ‘Having diarrhoea more than 10 times a day indicates severe diarrhoea, shares General pediatric doctor in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani. Both breastfed and formula-fed babies can have acute diarrhoea because of a viral (like rotavirus), bacterial (like Salmonella), or parasitic (like giardia) infection or as a side effect of antibiotics. They may even be suffering from recurrent diarrhoea because of an allergy to cow’s milk or lactose intolerance.  

How to Take Care of Diarrhoea in Babies?

As a parent or caretaker of your baby, it’s your responsibility to keep your child hydrated with feed or oral rehydration solution. But to avoid worsening diarrhoea, you have to avoid giving sugar-loaded drinks to your baby. If your baby eats semi-solid food, you should make your baby eat starchy foods or easy-to-digest foods. Before and after a change of diaper, proper hygiene and cleanliness are a must.

When to Seek Advice from a Pediatric Doctor?

Get your baby to visit the general pediatrician doctor in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani, if your baby:

Has persistent or severe diarrhoea- Seek medical advice, when a baby is having diarrhoea lasting for a couple of days or worse than before.

Show signs of dehydration- Immediately take your baby to a doctor, if your baby is wetting diapers less often, passing dark urine, has no tears and a very dry mouth, is lethargic, or has a sunken fontanelle (soft spot).

Has concerning signs other than diarrhoea- Consult with a child specialist right away if your baby is having fever, frequent vomits, persistent stomach pain, blood in stool, or other concerning symptoms.

For more details, meet Dr. Promilla Butani, a child specialist with over 45 years of experience, today to give your child the best care for their overall development and enhancing health.

[generalpediatrics]

Comprehensive Pediatric Care: Keeping Your Child Healthy and Happy

To keep your child happy and healthy, parents will go to great lengths. So, why not start by finding the best General Pediatrician Doctor in Delhi? We, as parents, want nothing better than to see our children grow up strong, happy, and free of any major health issues. This is where your pediatrician will help you make the journey far more easy for you and your child both.

A child specialist is someone who can provide comprehensive, personalized care curated especially to suit your child’s health requirements. This blog contains all the insight about how and why comprehensive pediatric care is essential. Stay tuned to know everything right here!

Why Comprehensive Pediatric Care is Essential for Your Child

Pediatric care actually goes beyond just treating illnesses. It involves preventive healthcare, monitoring growth and development, managing health conditions, and ensuring a child’s mental and emotional well-being. To put it simply, comprehensive pediatric care is about ensuring all aspects of your child’s health are covered in a very holistic manner.

Here are some key reasons why pediatric care is so important:

Early Detection of Health Issues: Regular pediatric checkups allow your doctor to catch potential health problems early before they become serious issues.

Vaccinations: Keeping track of vaccinations is an essential part of your child’s healthcare routine. A general pediatrician helps ensure that your child gets vaccinated on time, protecting them from dangerous diseases.

Growth Monitoring: Pediatricians track your child’s growth, ensuring they are meeting developmental milestones and address any concerns early.

Personalized Health Advice: Every child is unique in their own way, and a pediatrician can provide customized and especially curated their specific needs, whether it's nutrition, sleep, or physical activity.

What to Expect from a General Pediatrician Doctor

Choosing the right pediatrician can have a great impact on your child’s overall health. They can offer more than just clinical expertise; they also provide compassionate care that puts both the child and their family at ease. The comprehensive care includes:

As mentioned earlier, every child is unique; hence, the doctor will provide more personalized care is essential. The doctor will take the time to understand your child’s medical history, family history, and lifestyle to offer the best treatment options.

From routine wellness exams and immunizations to managing chronic conditions such as asthma or allergies, comprehensive pediatric care covers all aspects of a child’s health.

Pediatric care is not just about treating the child. It’s also about educating parents too. A General pediatric doctor in South Delhi offers guidance on parenting, nutrition, and behavioural concerns, empowering parents to make informed decisions about their child's health.

The Role of Preventive Care in Pediatric Health

One of the primary focuses of pediatric care is preventive health. Prevention is always better than cure, and regular visits to a pediatrician can help ensure your child stays healthy and happy. Preventive care includes:

Regular Checkups: These are scheduled visits where the pediatrician monitors growth and development, provides age-appropriate vaccinations, and performs necessary screenings.

Vaccination Schedules: Vaccines are essential in preventing diseases such as measles, polio, and chickenpox. An expert pediatrician will ensure that your child’s vaccinations are up to date, reducing the risk of serious illnesses.

Healthy Lifestyle Counseling: The doctor will encourage proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep habits to help in preventing obesity, diabetes, and other health issues in the long run.

Mental Health Awareness: Pediatricians today also focus on the mental and emotional health of children, recognizing early signs of stress, anxiety, or developmental delays.

Specialized Care for Common Pediatric Health Concerns

While general pediatric care focuses on overall well-being, there are times when a child might need treatment for specific conditions. A pediatrician with extensive experience will be able to handle various common pediatric health issues, such as:

Infectious Diseases: Kids are more prone to infections, whether it's the flu, cold, or more serious infections. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery.

Asthma: Asthma is a common chronic condition among children. With proper management and medication, a pediatrician can help your child lead a normal, active life.

Allergies: Many children suffer from seasonal allergies, food allergies, or environmental sensitivities. Your pediatrician will create tailored care to manage these issues and improve your child’s quality of life.

Skin Conditions: Rashes, eczema, and acne are common childhood skin problems that require specialized care. An expert pediatric doctor will offer effective solutions to treat these conditions.

Always Consult The Best Pediatrician in Delhi

Every parent seeking an experienced pediatrician can consult Dr Promilla Butani. She is the best pediatrician in Delhi and offers an exceptional combination of experience, expertise, and compassionate care. Her clinic, Dr. Promilla Butani’s Pediatrics Practice, is equipped with the latest medical technology and offers a comfortable, child-friendly environment that helps children feel safe and cared for during their visits.

Whether your child requires a routine checkup or a specific health issue, a skilled pediatrician will indeed provide the most effective solutions to keep your child healthy and happy.

[generalpediatrics]

How A Pediatrician Can Help Manage Your Child’s Illness

Having a sick child can be heartbreaking and overwhelming for a parent. The worry, the confusion, and the stress can all take a toll on your health as well. But what if you had a trusted professional to guide you through these health challenges? That’s where a general pediatric doctor in Delhi comes into play. Pediatricians specialize in the health and well-being of children, offering expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions that affect children from infancy to adolescence.

[generalpediatrics]

Jaundice in Newborn: What You Need to Know

Welcoming a newborn into your family is a rollercoaster of emotions. There’s joy, excitement, and, let's face it, a lot of concerns. One thing that might catch you off guard is noticing a yellowish tint on your baby’s skin or eyes. This might be jaundice. At first, it can be a bit scary, but this is actually very common and usually nothing to stress about. Yes, it can be serious in some cases. That’s why it’s always good to consult with a general pediatrician doctor in Delhi, as they can help you understand the situation better.

Curious about what jaundice is, why it happens, and what you can do about it? Keep reading to find out.

Jaundice in Newborns

Jaundice in newborns is when a baby's skin, eyes, and sometimes (in rare cases) mouth turn a little yellow. This happens because of a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow substance made when the body breaks down old red blood cells. Newborns have underdeveloped livers, and it can take a bit longer to get rid of the bilirubin, so they can't remove it quickly in the first few days after birth. This can lead to jaundice in the newborns. It can get serious if newborns do not receive proper supervision.

Types of Jaundice in Newborns

There are a few different reasons why a newborn may develop jaundice:

Breastfeeding Jaundice: This happens to babies who are not breastfeeding well. The reason could be either because the mother is struggling with breastfeeding or because the baby isn’t getting enough milk. It’s often a sign that the baby needs more frequent feedings.

Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common type, affecting almost 60% of babies. This usually occurs on the 2nd or 3rd day after the birth. Normally, it can resolve on its own within one to two weeks. If not, you should consult a General Pediatrician in South Delhi for professional supervision.

Breast Milk Jaundice: This is quite a rare type of substance in the mother’s breast milk that can interfere with the baby’s ability to process bilirubin. This will eventually lead to jaundice. However, this usually isn’t harmful and can often be resolved with continued breastfeeding. If it does not resolve within a certain time, you should consult with a pediatrician. 

How to Spot Jaundice in Your Newborn?

Are you having a hard time understanding whether your baby has jaundice or just yellow skin? Here are some symptoms you should look out for:

Check the baby’s face, chest, and eyes for a yellow tint.

The whites of the eyes may have some yellow in them, which is usually an early sign of jaundice.

See if your newborn’s urine colour is more yellowish than normal. A darker colour can be a sign of high bilirubin levels.

How is Jaundice Treated in Newborns?

In most cases, jaundice often does not require any treatment and goes away on its own. However, in severe cases, treatments are required. Here are most opted treated for jaundice by professionals:

Phototherapy or Light Therapy: One of the most commonly used jaundice treatments is phototherapy. In this, the baby is placed under special lights that help break down bilirubin in the skin. The light rays make it easier for the liver to remove the bilirubin from the body.

Excess Feeding: Yes, excess feeding can help get rid of bilirubin in the body. More frequent feedings, either breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, help the baby pass the bilirubin through their stool.

If jaundice is severe, your baby might need to stay in the hospital for observation and further treatment. This could include intravenous fluids or a blood transfusion in very rare cases. A pediatrician will monitor the bilirubin levels and guide you properly on the best approach for your baby.

When to Get Medical Help?

Most cases of jaundice in newborns are usually mild and, therefore, can resolve on their own. However, if you feel the situation is much more serious than it seems, you should get medical help. You should reach out to a healthcare professional if:

Jaundice appears within the first 24 hours of birth

The yellow skin and eyes seem to be getting worse 

You notice that your baby’s skin is turning very dark yellow, in some cases green

Immediately visit a trusted pediatrician near you to get proper treatment for your newborn.

Who is The Best Pediatrician in South Delhi?

As much as jaundice is a self-healing health issue, it can be concerning if not supervised properly. Therefore, it is always essential to have a trusted pediatrician by your side to help you through such situations. Dr Promilla Butani is an experienced pediatrician with 52 years of experience treating newborns and children. Her expertise and skill sure have made her the best pediatrician in South Delhi, making her the perfect choice for your child. 

Your baby’s health should always be a priority. Choose the best doctor because, with the right care early on, they’ll have a smooth start.

Read more:

 Why Vaccinations Are Important For Your Baby?

Common Health Problems in Kids – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Summer Health Tips for Kids

7 Essential Tips For Raising A Child With Asthma

3 Things to do when your child is born

Is Your Child Suffering From Mental Illness?