Health Family
Having a baby in the house is a wonderful time, but many new parents can worry about common infant health concerns. Here’s a quick guide to the main ones
Teething From about six months, a baby's teeth start pushing through their gums. This can cause pain as well as other symptoms including irritability, red cheeks, dribbling, constant chewing and sometimes also nappy rash and white patches on their gums.
How can your pharmacist help? Your local pharmacy stocks products that can help, including rings and teethers that help sooth babies' gums as well as pain-relieving gels. If your baby is in pain or has a temperature, you can also ask your pharmacist about pain relief suitable for your baby’s age.
Top tip If your baby’s eating solid foods, giving them things to chew on can help too, such as carrots and breadsticks. Always supervise your child when they’re eating.
Diarrhoea and vomiting If your baby has diarrhoea and vomiting it’s usually caused by a stomach bug and should pass in a few days. You shouldn’t need to see your GP unless your baby’s symptoms don’t improve or there’s a risk of a more serious problem.
How can your pharmacist help? Your pharmacist may recommend a special rehydration drink if your baby may be dehydrated and tell you how much to give them. If your baby also has a temperature, your pharmacist can recommend a liquid paracetamol product.
Top tip Encourage your baby to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Babies should also continue to feed as usual.
Colic If your baby seems fine during the day but cries a lot at night they may have colic, which causes stomach pain during the first three months. Other symptoms include a red face and pulling up their legs while crying.
How can your pharmacist help? Colic remedies are available at pharmacies, including baby colic drops that have a soothing effect on your baby's tummy.
Top tips If you're bottle feeding, a change of formula may help – ask your pharmacist, midwife or GP to suggest an alternative to the formula you're using now. Rubbing your baby's tummy gently can help too.
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Nappy rash If there's redness in your baby's nappy area, they may have a common problem called nappy rash.
How can your pharmacist help? A barrier cream, available at pharmacies, can be applied to clean, dry skin at every nappy change. If the problem persists or is severe, speak to your midwife or doctor.
Top tip Let your baby go without a nappy from time to time, as this will help air their skin. Try to their nappy regularly, and only use products that are designed for the nappy area. Also don’t use soap, bubble bath, lotions or talcum powder when you bathe your baby. If the rash persists, ask your pharmacist for advice.
Cradle cap Cradle cap is a common form of dermatitis that causes thick, yellow, crusty patches on a baby's scalp. It’s harmless and doesn’t usually cause any discomfort, and usually clears up by itself after a few weeks or months.
How can your pharmacist help? Your local pharmacy stocks baby shampoos that are formulated to relieve cradle cap.
Top tip Apply products such as petroleum jelly or olive oil to your baby's scalp and leave overnight, then wash it off gently the next morning (source: NHS Choices)..
Find your nearest Careway pharmacy at
www.careway.co.uk/find-a-pharmacy.
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