Newborn health warning signs
A doctor explains the red flag symptoms that parents should know.
Do you have questions about your newborn baby's breathing or how often a newborn should poop? Join Dr. Alok Patel, parent and pediatrician from Stanford Children's Hospital, to learn about some of the most important newborn health warning signs.
Watch the video or read the tips below.
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Ask a doctor: Newborn health warning signs
Little babies really only have a few jobs. Peeing, pooping, eating, sleeping, crying.
I guess being cute isn't really a job. It's more of an identity.
And sometimes babies can do too much or too little of any of these roles.
And sometimes it could be a cause for concern. Don't worry. We got you.
Here are some red flags or some warning signs that you should look out for. If you notice any of these in your children, consider talking to a doctor.
Any fever in babies under the age of three months could be potentially serious.
As could rapid, fast breathing. If you notice your children using their stomachs or their shoulders to breathe and it looks like they're struggling, you want to seek medical care.
Also, if you notice that your baby is no longer peeing, especially going 8 hours or more, or not pooping for several days, talk to a doctor or go to a clinic.
Other warning signs would include changes in skin colour, like a yellowing or blueing of the skin or vomiting. And I don't mean spit up because every baby spits up a little bit, but I mean forceful vomiting.
And if this seems like a long list and you are overwhelmed, take a deep breath. At the end of the day, trust your instinct. If any one of your baby's adorable little jobs feels off, talk to a health care professional. That's why we're here.
Dr. Alok Patel is a pediatrician at Stanford Children's hospital, producer and ABC News correspondent.
