BABIES AND SUN EXPOSURE: A PARENT’S WATCHLIST

Is your family spending a lot of time outdoors this summer?

Babies join their parents and siblings for all kinds of outings, and the sun exposure adds up. The littlest members of your family are also the most vulnerable to sun damage.

Only a few blistering sunburns in childhood can double the chance a person will develop skin cancer in over a lifetime.

Protect your babies by looking out for these three things:

Direct sun

Babies’ young skins have not yet developed melanin, the pigment that protects us from harmful UV rays. Keep them out of direct sun—particularly infants under six months. Stay in the shade, cover up with hats and clothing, and extend the hood on your stroller and car seat.

If you can’t keep her out of the sun, as a last resort you can apply a small amount of sunscreen to your baby, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. Zinc and titanium-based sunscreens are best, but talk to your doctor first.

Harmful ingredients

When selecting a sunscreen for your child, check the label for retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A that has caused lesions in test animals, and oxybenzone, a synthetic estrogen that penetrates the skin and can disrupt the hormone system.

Another ingredient to avoid: methylisothiazolinone (MI). Manufacturers commonly add this preservative to baby wipes and other personal care products, including sunscreen. A potent allergen, MI is linked to painful allergic skin rashes. Although some manufacturers are beginning to phase out MI, it could still be hiding in your products, even those labeled hypoallergenic.

Visit the EWG Sun Safety Guide to find a good sunscreen for your family and steer clear of the 11 worst sunscreens for kids.

Vitamin D

Sun exposure has health benefits, too. Vitamin D forms naturally in our bodies when we’re exposed to sunlight. People with limited sun exposure—particularly babies—may be deficient in this essential hormone, which strengthens bones and protects against several cancers. Consult your doctor about your child’s intake: Breastfed infants need supplements, and many others do as well. Learn more about whether your family is getting enough vitamin D.

Special reminder for parents: be sure to model good behavior when spending time in the sun. From infancy, babies learn by watching you. Cover up, seek shade, apply sunscreen and reapply after you get wet.

Find more tips in the Healthy Child Healthy World 2015 Sun Safety Guide for Children.

19 Ways To Keep Your Baby or Toddler Happy During Diaper Changes

   " Dr. Laura,
    My 11 month old is really happy he's learned to sit up, explore everything in hands reach and roll during diaper changes. He gets so distraught during diaper changes when I prevent him from using these new skills. If I flip him back onto his back after he's rolled onto his tummy giggling or if I keep him from practicing his sit-up skills he turns from happy giggles to sobs and tears. And it is clear that he thinks I am being mean by not allowing him this sweet play exploration that prevents me changing his diaper... he tells me he's so frustrated in his sobs and yells of "momma". I've tried many different things to distract him or keep his attention... toys, dancing, singing, talking, music... all to no avail. He wants to sit-up, roll over and play with whatever diaper accessory I've brought his way. I hate that he hates diaper changes and have no idea what to do. The changes are now trigger of anxiety for him. I can totally understand his upset during certain changing times such as middle of the night wet diapers while he's hungry and sleepy. But what can I do during other times when he's clearly distressed that my changing his diaper is preventing him from newfound skills and exploring?"

MOST little ones go through stages of hating diaper changes. Unless you have the rare child who is uncomfortable in wet diapers, then he has no incentive to have a diaper change. Your son is old enough to want to be more in charge of his body and his time. He doesn't want an adult to swoop in and pick him up and disrobe him when he's busy with something.

Sometimes, simply slowing down and connecting changes everything. Sometimes, giving the child control is the key to avoiding a power struggle. Often, not interrupting their play solves the problem by meeting their needs as well as yours. And sometimes you will probably find yourself resorting to distraction. So here's a list of ideas to try, most of which will work sometimes, or for awhile. You may find some good combinations that work for you. I suggest printing this list and adding to it as you come up with more solutions that work for you and your child.

1. Connect with him.

Children are always more likely to cooperate with us if we connect first. Take a deep breath. Get on your child's level and connect. Comment on what he's doing. Then, point out that his diaper is wet. Ask if he has noticed it. This gives him an opportunity to check in with his body. (This is a good foundation block for eventual potty learning.) He also feels, since you've connected, like you're on his side. You aren't just pushing him around, which of course would make him feel resistant.

2. Be more mindful.

Cassandra Vieten suggests that our ability to stay calm and connected during a diaper change models for our children how they can stay grounded in the face of their own discomfort. She stresses bringing compassionate, open-hearted full presence to the diaper change, rather than just rushing through it. In fact, she calls this the "Mindful Diaper Change Practice." (And you thought you didn't have time for mindfulness practices anymore!)

3. Give him some respect.

Magda Gerber, founder of RIE, taught that even though babies can't understand our words, they feel the difference when they're treated with respect. So from the time they're infants, instead of just scooping them up, move slowly and explain what's happening. Receptive language is about a year ahead of expressive language, so your son already understands much more than you think. And even tiny babies understand your tone of voice. If you do this from the time your baby is born, they have better associations with diaper changes and don't build up such resistance.

4. Give him some control and choice.

Always ask "Ready for a diaper change?" If he says no, say, "Your diaper is wet. Do you want to change it now or in three minutes? 3 minutes? Ok, let's shake on it!"

5. Depersonalize it.

If this feels like a power struggle, depersonalize it by setting the alarm for three minutes. Tell him,

         "When the alarm rings, it is three minutes and time for your diaper change, ok?"

When the alarm rings, say "Oh, listen, there's the alarm, it's been three minutes -- Time for that diaper change!" Then help him transition using one of the other ideas on this list.

6. Help him transition

...by taking an object he's involved with and carrying it with you. For instance, "Let's drive the truck to the changing table!"

7. Don't make him move.

If you can, use a portable changing pad and change him where he is playing, so there is less interruption to whatever's he's working on.

8. Don't interrupt his play.

Play is your baby's work. Naturally, he doesn't want to be interrupted. Why not change his diapers standing up, if they're just wet? This will minimize the times that is necessary to ask him to lie down, so he is more likely to cooperate when absolutely necessary for messy changes. Since he may not be fully stable yet, pick a toy he likes and put it on the couch, and stand him against the couch. (I know it's harder than lying down, but if you practice, you get good at it. I did this with my daughter beginning at 11 months, until she was out of diapers.)

9. Invite him to a party.

Most kids can't resist a party. Grab the drum, have a conga line, sing and dance your way to the bedroom: "Gonna change that diaper right off of your tush!" or "Happiness is a clean diaper" or whatever song gets him moving.

10. Let him do the walking.

Many kids object to being carried off to be changed, but if you're making it into a party and he's dancing along into his room next to you in celebration, he's actively taking part in the plan, not feeling pushed around.
11. Ease into it by first diapering his doll or teddy.

Let him help. Shower admiration on Teddy for how quickly he does his diaper change. Then say, "Your turn! Are you quick too?"

12. Ask for his help.

Team up with your child to get the job done. For instance, maybe he would like to take off his own diaper? Kids love mastering new skills. Tell him what you are doing at each step and involve him, for instance,

         "I'm going to wipe you off now -- do you want to hold the wipes?"

Ask him to put his feet flat and lift up his bottom so you can slide the diaper under him, if he doesn't want to, say
 

 "Ok, I'm going to lift your bottom now to put the diaper under you."

13. Slow down.

If you treat this as a chance to connect and enjoy your child, he is more likely to stay cooperative. If you rush through the diaper change like it's something unpleasant, he will react as if he is being held down and subjected to something unpleasant.

14. Empathize:

"Does that feel cold on your bottom?" When your child gets upset, try not to get reactive. Instead, soften and stay compassionate. That way he'll know it isn't actually an emergency, and you understand and are looking out for his best interests.

15. Make it something to look forward to.

When you absolutely have to ask him to lie down for a change, for instance when there's a messy diaper, have a basket of toys ready that he only has access to while you're changing his diaper. You might even go hog-wild and find very small presents that you actually wrap in newspaper, and put in the basket. Every diaper change, he chooses one. What kinds of presents? Stuff you have around the house, or would have bought him anyway: Plastic measuring spoons or a funnel, small board books, little figures, a block with a letter A on it, a roll of masking tape, a broken cell phone, a plastic cup, Chapstick, colorful trinkets from Ikea, clay or playdoh with a plastic garlic press so he can make "noodles," a puppet, a tiny flashlight, little wind-up toys, stickers, an unbreakable mirror, you get the idea. You can even re-wrap things that he's left lying around and has forgotten about.

16. Get him laughing.

Laughter reduces stress hormones and increases bonding hormones. So getting your child laughing for ten minutes is always a good strategy when you know you'll need cooperation. Before you start the diaper change, start roughhousing in a way that makes your child squeal with laughter. Chase him around the house, be completely silly. After ten minutes, make the diaper change part of the fun.

17. Provide live entertainment.

If he's fussing, try singing to him very softly. He will usually stop fussing to listen to you. Sing, dance, kiss his belly, blow down his neck, make as many silly faces and noises as you can. Somewhere in there, get the diaper changed as unobtrusively as possible.

18. Keep a cd that has an interesting story on it ready to turn on while you change him.

He might even come to look forward to the next installment.

19. Let him decorate.

Keep a stash of stickers by the changing table. Every diaper change, let him choose one that he is allowed to put on the wall next to the table.

No one approach will always work, so you'll have to mix and match and be willing to try different things. But keep your sense of humor, and remember that this too shall pass. It will seem like the blink of an eye before you find yourself trying to get your six year old to take his bath!

Author,

Dr. Laura

Baby Acne – Causes and Treatments

Baby acne is a very common condition among newborn babies. Baby acne can be present at the time of birth or may usually develop within 2 to 4 weeks after birth. Baby acne is a result of the hormonal changes in the body as these changes stimulate the oil glands in the baby's skin.

Baby acne, as with all medical conditions, has some common symptoms. Usually the acne first appears to be a rash with small pimples that are red in appearance. Sometimes, whiteheads can actually be seen. The pimples will tend to show up more when the baby is upset or overheated and at times they may even seem as though they are not there at all. Baby cane will clear up with time and are not something that young mothers should be overly concerned about.

Baby acne is primarily caused by fetal hormones, such as adrenal androgens, that are passed through the placenta prior to birth. Drugs, taken by the nursing mum or by the baby, can also trigger baby acne. The most common ones include: Steroids (oral or topical), anti-depressant medicines and occasionally oral contraceptives.

What causes baby acne?

There are several factors that can cause acne on the skin of the baby.

* As with adolescent acne, the condition can be caused by a skin irritation

* Medicines can causes baby acne as well

* It's possible that mineral oil or petroleum can cause baby acne.

Bad Nutrition

Since your baby cannot pick up bad eating habits at this early age, infantile acne due to bad nutrition is very rare. Bad nutrition can be the cause of infantile acne if parents are not attentive toward their babies' diet.

Does Baby Acne Hurt? More often than not, you will be more affected by your baby's acne than she is. Baby acne does not itch, sting, or hurt in any way. And she is too young to notice her unsightly appearance. So it is more likely that baby acne will bother you, than your baby. However, with severe cases of baby acne, the blemishes may become so swollen and inflamed that they cause or add to your baby's fussiness. See your health care provider if you think your baby's acne is causing her aggravation.

Treatment:

Baby acne usually goes away by itself. It is sufficient in most cases to do some gentle facial cleansing once or at most twice a day using a mild baby cleanser and clean water. Do not scrub baby's face, this will not help and may be counterproductive. Don't apply lotions or potions or oils. Don't look for fancy baby acne remedies, don't try applying vinegar solution for baby acne as some do Unless baby's acne is being caused by an underlying condition, there is really no need to treat it. It doesn't harm your baby and is purely a cosmetic issue. Gently wash your baby's face with plain water once or twice per day, and don't scrub. Cleansing that is too frequent or too vigorous will irritate your baby's skin.

Prevention

· Child should not sleep on dirty pillows.

· Drink fresh fruits juices and large amount of water.

· Do not squeeze, dig, touch or pick the acne.

· Use paper towels to pat the affected area dry and throw it away.

Author,

Peterhutch

Benefits and Risks of Infant Massage

Many adults have been on the receiving end of a massage. How great does it feel when your tired and achy body gets to relax? Adults go for massages not only for physical but also emotional and mental relaxation. After being in work or running after kids all day, most adults deserve a good massage.

What about infants, though? Do they really need a massage? What do they really need to relax from, aren't their lives relaxing enough? While an infant massage may be relaxing it is also a great bonding experience between mothers and babies or fathers and babies.

1. What Is Infant Massage?

Infant massage has been becoming very popular not only among celebrities but with the "average Joe's" as well. Even though it's popularity has been rising in the United States of America over the past thirty years, infant massage is in no way new to other countries. As we find new information about this infant relaxation technique, we find that mother's have been massaging babies for hundreds of years.

Infant massage is exactly what it sounds like... a massage for an infant. While parents alone can attend to the baby during the massage, there are also certified infant massage therapists. Babies are usually massaged in a diaper, alone. This allows for more skin to skin contact, which studies show to be beneficial for the baby.

Babies need to be in a very relaxed mood and for optimal results should not be cranky, overtired, hungry, or irritable. Mothers, fathers, or whomever is attending to the baby should use a baby friendly oil such as baby oil. After rubbing a small amount in between the palms, the adult then starts from the head and sweeps downward towards the face and neck. This happens in a cupping motion. The adult uses gentle touches and massage techniques massaging downward towards the arms, tummy, legs, and feet.

Many times if the child has issues the adult with show special attention to that body part. If the baby is colic, for instance, the adult may take care of the tummy more so than any other body part. Using two fingers, the adult will use a circular motion on the stomach. This allows for gas bubbles to decrease. The adult may also bend the knees up towards the belly allowing excess air to release.

The massage techniques may include Indian milking methods, Chinese pediatric strokes, and Swedish massage methods.

2. Who are the Best candidates for Infant Massage?

The best candidates for an infant massage, for obvious reasons, would be babies. As with any kind of natural therapy or healing technique, one must take care as to who actually goes for an infant massage. Infants should be in the best health possible.

The infant's pediatrician should be consulted about the massage. At this time benefits can be discussed as well as potential risks involved. Although, the infant may have a health issue he or she may still be able to partake in an infant massage. As we see with the benefits, an infant massage has to potential to help alleviate some infant health symptoms.

3. What are the Benefits?

Studies have shown that human touch can help a child grow and develop at a faster and healthier rate. 

Many doctors now persuade mothers, fathers, and caregivers to participate in Kangaroo Care when a baby is born prematurely. Even when the baby is born at a normal delivery date, many parents still take part in Kangaroo Care which is skin-to-skin contact.

Infant massage, like Kangaroo Care, involves skin-to-skin contact and human touch. Benefits of infant massage include:

* Baby feels more at ease and more relaxed

* Decrease in gas and relief of colic

* Studies show an increase in weight gain

* Studies show that the immune system of a baby improves

* Communication increases between caregiver and baby

* There is evidence of improved brain growth

* Improves baby's sleep patterns

Evidence shows that the benefits are not only for the babies but for the caregivers as well. Infant massage is shown to improve the bonding experience as well as relieve stress for parents. This is especially true for mothers who have been diagnosed with post-partum depression.

4. What are the Risks?

While no risks have been shown regarding infant massage if done properly, there has also been little study done about the risks possibly involved. The only risk really shown at this point is the fear that the infant massage will result in overstimulation of the infant. Benefits are shown to hold the upper hand, though when evaluating the risks.

Whoever is attending to the baby during the massage must take care not to massage too hard or vigorously as this can harm the baby. If the mother, father, or caregiver does not feel comfortable with the infant massage then he or she can have a licensed infant massage therapist to tend to the baby. Another option is for the parents and caregivers to take classes or lessons which can help them learn the infant massage techniques.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate health care provider.

Author,

Yodle

Mother's Issue for Baby Rash

Mom and dad get very worried when they notice baby rash. Not every rashes seen really are a serious issue. Try to learn how to distinguish if your allergy requirements important health advice or not. 

Usually if your rash on infant skin receives pale when pushed, your son or daughter might have erythematous rash. This is not a significant problem, but it's great to get medical health advice concerning begin providing your youngster the right remedy.

When when you media the allergy doesn't change light but continues to be reddish, then perhaps your child is actually afflicted with petechial or perhaps purpuric allergy. This kind of rash wants important health advice due to the fact there may be a fundamental severe medical problem which would require urgent hospital treatment. You should find medical advice particularly child provides a fever.

Nappy break outs impacts almost every infant. Your son or daughter's pores and skin gets red-colored and inflamed as well as often it even starts to level. If the condition is much more severe, pimples and also blisters may also be observed around the affected area. This disorder generally takes place when the nappy just isn't changed regularly particularly when the actual nappy will be moist and ruined. It's always best to utilize natural cotton wool damped inside hot water concerning clear your son or daughter. Do not utilize baby wipes particularly alcohol wipes or perhaps perfumed wipes. Infants could be highly responsive to these kind of goods. Occasionally they're even sensitive to particular nappy brands. Attempt to relieve this problem simply by washing infant bottom part having an medicinal wash. Attempt and also to change the diaper often and to pat dried out water from your baby's epidermis.

Author,

Charles

Baby Bath for newborn, I Can't Be Bothered, does it matter to bath a baby?

When a baby is born for the first few weeks baby sleeps.It lies down for most of the time on sheets in the pram or a moses basket. The coton fibres come off get stuck in the hair and in arm pits from wearing vest and clothes etc. It is important to bath a baby because otherwise the cotton strands etc would cause irritation to a newborn babys delicate skin and eventually if not washed away will turn red and become very sore.The fact about bathing a baby is not just to keep baby clean but its a quality time you and your partner can bond with baby.

It helps baby relax and settle off to sleep although until a baby realizes umm this is really good they may scream until they get used to it. Then they will cry again just because you took them out of the bath. Baby's are so funny..

Many dads come up with all sorts of excuses why they can't bath baby. "My hands are too cold". Or "my hands are full of oil" or "I just have to nip to the pub to meet my friends".

Really, they just lack either confidence in holding a slippery newborn, or are scared they will drop the baby.

Here are the simple rules to follow when bathing baby for any new mum or dad. PS. Dads don't tell the wife or your partner, read this information and put it into practice. You won't need to go to parenting school for bathing babies or asking a midwife how it's done.

It's all here to how to do it the easy way plus it's free and very simple to follow.

You CAN do it, you will feel over the moon and overjoyed in pleasing the other half.

YOU WILL BE BOUND OVER WITH SELF CONFIDENCE AND SELF ESTEEM YOU WILL SOON BE ABLE TO SHOW OTHER DADS HOW TO DO IT. WHAT A PROUD DAD YOU ARE FOR HAVING A GO WELL DONE.

1.        A good time to bath baby is in the evening before baby is due for an evening feed. The last thing you need is to give baby a feed then bath the baby ending up with baby sick every where and baby going hungry.

2.        Prepare a warm, draught free room in which you will bath baby.

3.        get together everything baby needs in clothes i.e. a baby bathed in the evening may wear a sleep suit, a vest, a cotton hat, a cardigan, socks, and a nappy.

Prepare the baby box with every thing you need to wash baby. This method uses baby soap and shampoo. Cotton wool balls and baby sponge and a warm hooded bath towel. You may need a small bowl of warm water to use on baby's face.

4.        You may also need a changing mat if you do not want to change baby on your knee. A laundry bucket for babies washing and a couple of nappy sacs for rubbish and soiled nappy.

5.        Prepare the baby bath using a stand if needed and by adding cold water first and use a jug to add the hot water being careful around toddlers... test with a baby bath thermometer or with your elbow so it is warm enogh but not too hot to bath your baby in.Using your elbow is the most sensitive part to react to cold or hot water temperatures.its a good way to take the top of the shampoo at this stage so you don't get fumbled.

6.        Do not let the water go too cold whilst you are getting baby ready.

7.        Undress baby down to the nappy, wrap securely with a towel so baby does not get cold. And starting with the face use cotton wool and water with nothing added (No bubble baths or soap) or from the bowl or bath water. Wiping from the inside out clean each side of the face with one cotton wool ball. Eye infections can occur if you wipe from the outside inwards. Throw away in nappy sac and dry with a clean one in the same way inside to outside of baby's face.

8.        Holding baby wrapped in towel under one arm and holding baby close to your side hip. Leaning over the bath gently wet hair and apply a small amount of shampoo, rub over hair very gently with your other hand. Keep supporting baby with your other hand, arm and hip. Wash baby's head by pouring water over the head very carefully as to not get it into baby's eyes. You can use your hand you do not need a jug for this stage.

9.        Rinse off very well, (as cradle cap can form in the form of crust like scabs on baby's head due to a build up of excess shampoo).

10.     Move towel up or put the hood over to dry baby's hair by gently patting/rubbing dry.

11.     Remove baby's nappy and clean nappy area with baby's usual wipes or cotton wool balls and water.

12.     Place baby in bath and holding baby as if you were putting your arm around him/her and supporting the legs as well with one hand the other hand is free to wash baby using your other hand wash over with soap and rinse off. Turn baby over and repeat for baby's back .Dry off your baby in towel being careful to dry in all the little ceases

13.     .Apply Nappy, Dress fully and cuddle baby before giving back to mum or dad ready for evening feed.

14.     NOW FOR THE WORST PART Don't forget to help tidy away the bath, nappy and soiled clothes.

 For parents using baby bath products when you are up to washing baby's hair, wet hair a little apply baby bath products instead of shampoo to the hair, rinse of with the bath water. Apply a little more to the baby bath then swirl around in water to make bubbles, wash baby in the baby bath there is no need to rinse baby off with clean water. Dry baby in the normal way.

Some mums may wish to apply a little baby oil on baby's skin after drying baby, but do not use on baby's face.

So enjoy bath time even if it is the hassle of tidying everything away afterwards seems too muich trouble,especially when you are tired babies really are worth it.

Author,

Sheila Sudlow Of Cheeky Chums

How to Handle Your Newborn Baby

Baby is a precious creation- you must handle him/her with utmost care. Your baby lacks muscle control, so you have to take extra precautions while holding, bathing, feeding, and dressing the baby. Lift the baby slowly and don’t rush when you carry her/him. Newborns are completely dependent on you.

If this is your first baby and have never handled any baby before, baby’s fragility may be overwhelming for you. For many parents, just holding the tiny baby is nerve-wracking.  Below are few guidelines to follow and within a couple of days, you can become an expert.

Holding the baby carefully-For a new parent, who has no experience with infants, simply picking up and holding the little one is scary. Take suggestion from older member in the family and friends. Your baby’s head is big and heavy compared to other parts of the baby. Therefore, it is very important to support your baby’s head and neck when you carry the baby up and lay down. A good way to pick the baby up and put him/her down is with your whole arm, which supports spine, neck and head at the same time. When you are going to wake up your baby, don’t shake him/her, just tickle in the feet and the baby will be up. Some parents like to wrap their baby’s legs and hands in a blanket until they are used to it

 Feeding the baby- Feeding the newborn is something that every new parent worries about at first. At this period, babies drink either breast milk or formula. If the mother is breastfeeding, then feeding will most likely occur in every few hours and if the baby is bottle fed, then the gap between feedings may go up to two to three hours. Don’t forget to burp the baby after each feeding.

Diapering the baby-Everybody knows how to change a diaper, but when you have to do it yourself, it may get messy. You may feel awkward in first few times, but slowly with little practice, you will handle the newborn with ease. While changing diapers, use a waist-high table with safety straps. Lay the baby on the diaper, fold the front half of the diaper over the baby and tighten it with attached tapes. Check the diaper in 5 to 10 minutes to see whether it is wet or not.  Do not allow the baby to be in wet diaper for a longer period, which may lead to skin infection.

Dressing the baby-Excited parents spend enough money to buy good clothes for their newborn baby. Whichever clothing you prefer, look for garments that are easy for you to put on and takeoff the baby like large necklines are easy to slip baby’s head. While dressing, support your baby’s head in one hand until he/she is 3 months old.

Bathing your baby- Bath time can be enjoyable if you know how to handle the baby while bathing. Until 10 to 15 days after birth, the baby is generally given a sponge bath and after that a daily bath. While bathing in tub, make sure to hold the baby in one hand tightly, otherwise the baby may slip. Right after the bath, wrap your baby in a towel and cover the head.

Make yourself sure to fasten the car seat or stroller every time when you are going out. Avoid bouncy or rough roads as this may upset your baby’s stomach.

It is better to ask for your family and friends to get through this time, which can be disturbing. Nurses can also show you how to hold, bath, change, and burp your baby. Though you may feel worried about handling a baby, within 2 to 3 months, you will get used to a daily routine and turn into a professional parent.

Author,

John Rope

What You Need To Know About Newborn Baby Acne

My baby's beautiful face has acne or some kind of rash all over his face. A newborn with acne? What is going on? There are many forms of baby acne and you should be aware of the different conditions. 

Your new born is breaking out with these red bumps and I know it can be frustrating to you. There are many forms baby acne you should be aware of are:

Neonatorum is a baby acne condition that affects about 20% of newborns. This acne stems from a mom's maternal hormones that are carried in the bloodstream of a newborn and a baby can have these breakouts right after delivery or within 3 weeks of age. 

Some different kinds of acne that you baby may experience and called Pustules(also can be know as whiteheads) and Papules. Pustules are small bumps in the skin with pus. And Papules are small red bumps the will rise on top of the skin. These two different forms of acne can show up around the face, on the cheeks and sometimes on the scalp. This kind of acne should disappear within 4 months. 

Newborn acne can sometimes get confused with these two conditions called Milia and Infantile Acne. 

Milia will present itself during the first week of life. And this kind of acne is usually associated by the warming of a baby who is placed in a incubator. A fever can also be presented as well. And then you have Infantile Acne. This type of acne can develop at the age of three months or even later on. 

And this condition can be more severe. This type will disappear after a baby is one years old. A baby can also have this Infantile Acne way up to 3 years old. And if this happens, this is usually due to family genetic. A strong family history of this genetic.

Seborrhea is another skin condition and you should watch for these kind of symptoms. You will start to notice very very small bumps and yellow crusty flakes or scales on hair bearing areas such as the scalp, the eyebrows or the eyelashes. This condition can sometimes affect the neck and shoulders too. 

This condition is sometime compared to eczema. This should go away on its own. Give your baby's doctor a call if you feel your baby is experiencing this.

Infant Eczema is a very common condition. Red bumps and patches are in various locations.This will commonly present itself on a baby's face and cheeks. Some babies will experience this rash all over their bodies as they get older unfortunately. And for some as a baby gets older, he or she will outgrow this. This type can be treated with many topical creams by prescription or you may be able to use some over the counter medications. You should consult with your baby's doctor on this.

In order to help keep this under control you should keep your baby's face clean with water at least two to three twice's a day. You can use a very mild soap or a non soap cleanser. Do not use any oils. 

And do not wash your infant's bibs, towels, or clothes with harsh detergents. Keep the neck area very clean. Make sure your baby is not allergic to anything. You should really keep a eye on this. For infants over 3 months that continue to break out, you can try a mild lotion with no more than 2.5% benzoyl peroxide. Never scrub a baby's skin. And be careful not to over heat your little one with layers and layers of clothing or in hot areas. Keep the skin moisturized with oil free lotions and unscented. Remember gentle cleansers and no oily products.

Parents, if you are concerned about taking pictures, don't be. You can still take pictures of your precious little one. And if needed, a professional photographer does touch-ups. This newborn acne is just a temporary setback and your infant will not remain with this acne forever. Go ahead and take those gorgeous pictures.

Author,

Carmen VJ

Pure Baby Eczema Care - Gentle Natural Care For Baby Eczema

For a parent who has had to watch their baby suffer from eczema, but does not like the idea of harsh medications, pure baby eczema care is the only alternative. No parent would want for their baby to needlessly suffer from the effects of eczema, so many are seeking to find a pure baby eczema care technique or cure so that their baby may be free of this debilitating condition. In this article, some background information will be provided, so that the reader may have a better understanding of eczema. If you are one of the many parents who have a child suffering with eczema and seek options, then this article should give you some of the background that you need.

To understand how he or she can rid their baby of the effects of eczema, one must start off by understanding what eczema is and what it is not. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is not a disease that is caused by a virus or bacteria. It is a skin disorder caused by a hypersensitivity reaction of the skin causing its inflammation. In this regard, it is more likened to an allergic reaction than anything else. This disorder causes red, scaly, leather-like skin, rash and intense itching during an inflammation cycle. There is no wonder why a parent would seek a pure baby eczema care treatment for his or her baby.

Conventional medicine offers some solutions in the form of cortisone cream to be used during the inflammation cycle. There are other prescription medications that may be prescribed in more severe cases. Most parents would agree that these forms of treatment are not pure baby eczema care and should be reserved as a last resort.

For the pure baby eczema care that most parents are seeking, there are some things that may be done in the way of prevention. For instance, avoiding such irritants as pet dander, household dust, cigarette smoke and sudden temperature changes will go a long way toward preventing an inflammation cycle. Foods that should be avoided include eggs, cow's milk, soy and peanuts. Breastfeeding mothers report less occurrence of eczema; however, a nursing mother should avoid cow's milk in her own diet for best results.

One of the most common and prevalent triggers of eczema is stress, and this is no different for babies. A baby is very perceptive, feeding on the emotions of those around him or her. For pure baby eczema care, contact with water should be limited and the temperature mild. Directly after bath, a lubricating cream should be applied to baby's skin. Moisture locked inside the skin is a good preventative measure for the eczema sufferer.

Parents need not fret that they cannot give their baby a better life by lessening the effects of eczema. 

Through some easy prevention techniques and a little further research, a parent can be assured that he or she will succeed in finding the pure baby eczema care for which he or she is looking.

Author,

Audrey Lynn

Baby Skin Care Is More Than Preventing Diaper Rash

Besides diaper and heat rash, babies can develop a condition called 'cradle cap'. Baby skin dries easily and it can even sunburn because melanin production is low. Sun protection is a most for baby skin. And because of the surge in hormones at the time of birth, babies can break out in acne, although baby skin is far less oily than an adult's.

General guidelines and tips on baby skin care and protection

Start life off right by protecting your baby from ultraviolet radiation exposure. Keep infants out of direct sunlight during the first few months. If you do go outside, be sure to cover the baby's skin with certified sun protection clothing (UPF50+ sun clothing is the highest sun protection you can get), a sun hat and baby sunglasses. Turn that into a habit and teach your child the importance of doing so as he or she grows older. Sunscreen products shouldn't be applied until the baby is 6 months old, but after that, they're absolutely necessary. Take care when riding in cars and when out for a stroll.

As for baby skin care, it won't be hard to find products formulated especially for babies. Purchase these and use as directed. Adult skin care products are not recommended for babies. They're far too harsh. You may have to switch laundry detergents if you find the one you're using is irritating your baby's skin.

Always change diapers as soon as possible. Urine and feces contain bacteria and must be washed away with warm water or baby wipes, otherwise infections can develop. Make sure wipes don't contain alcohol which can dry out a baby's skin. Remember to clean in the folds and also to dry this area gently but thoroughly. Diaper rash is very uncomfortable so apply an ointment or cream formulated especially for this common baby skin problem.

Moisturizing regularly with lotions and creams formulated for infants helps retain moisture. 

Excessive bathing isn't necessary and in fact can sap a baby's skin of moisture. Never use hot water for bathing. Like adults, babies prefer warm water. If your baby has cradle cap which resembles scaly dirty-looking skin, gently scrub top of head with a soft brush. If cradle cap doesn't go away, have the baby's physician take a look. Wind and cold can also cause dry skin so protect your baby when outside. If the air in your home is dry, consider getting a humidifier to add moisture.

Because a baby's skin doesn't yet perspire properly, babies aren't efficient at controlling their body temperatures. Sometimes, heat rashes can develop. Be sure to dress babies in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that's appropriate for the temperature to avoid these rashes that resemble red patches or pinkish-red bumps.

Good habits begin early and it's never too soon to develop a proper baby skin care routine!

Remember to protect your baby skin from UV radiation, use UPF50+ certified sun protection clothing when outdoor, proper sun protection hat, and sunglasses. UV radiation can affect skin even on cloudy day.

Author,

J Edmond Souaid

Tips For Treating Diaper Rash Naturally

No parent likes to see their little one in pain and unfortunately, diaper rashes can cause your baby to cry, scratch and complain. Many conventional diaper rash creams offer little or no treatment, and can actually cause the rash to become worse, especially if they contain questionable ingredients that are inappropriate for baby skin. If there is broken skin, the diaper rash ointment can get under the skin and irritate it. It also masks the problem and leaves the bottom area still moist under the diaper. Instead, the rash should be taken care of in a natural manner that is safe for baby and gentle.

When you change the baby's diaper, switch to using a moist (with water only) baby washcloth to cleanse your baby's bottom instead of baby wipes, which often contain drying and irritating ingredients. If you're on the run, you can carry some wet washcloths in a baggie. Look for washcloths made with unbleached, organic cotton, if possible. If this is too difficult, then at least look for hypoallergenic wipes that are unscented and that do not have preservatives and alcohols but that use essential oils and botanicals.

Prepare a bath with colloidal oatmeal. You can make your own oatmeal bath by grinding oats finely in the blender or Vita-Mix and then putting them in the bath either straight up or in a muslin tea bag (less mess). You can also find products at the health food store that contain colloidal oatmeal that helps reduce the inflammation and itchiness of the rash. Make sure the bath is nice and warm, but not too hot. Let your baby play in the water about 10-15 minutes.

In the bath, be sure to only use unscented products with no perfumes or dyes. You want to be gentle with baby's skin and only use products that won't irritate the skin with fragrances and dyes. When the bath is done, rinse your baby off with warm water and pat dry carefully.

After the bath, and after each diaper change until the rash has healed, allow your baby to be naked for as long as possible. This allows the rash to be exposed to air and begin the healing process, naturally. When the diaper is on, it only blocks bacteria and moisture back into the skin, which doesn't allow the skin to breathe.

During this "naked time" you can do several things. You can either leave your baby naked, or if you are afraid of him or her peeing on furniture, you can use a clean, cotton cloth to create your own diaper, the way diapers used to be put on. Or if you happen to have reusable cotton diapers, use one of those instead. At the end of the naked time, apply a diaper rash cream made from botanical ingredients. Put on the diaper loosely and check often to see if they need to be changed.

Depending on the severeness of the rash, you should see a visible improvement within one to three days time. If you are concerned the diaper rash has worsened or is not diaper rash at all, be sure to call the baby's health care provider to see what steps must be taken next.

If the diaper rash is constantly reoccurring, consider switching to chlorine-free, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic diapers instead, or cloth diapers. Incidentally cloth diapered babies get fewer episodes of diaper rash in the first place. If you're already using cloth, try removing the waterproof cover for as long as possible and simply letting baby wear a pinned on prefold for maximum air circulation.

Author,

Carrie Lauth

Ways To Care For Your New Born Baby.

So you are a first time parent! Congratulations! You may already be dreading those loud cries in the middle of the night and the nappy changing hassles, don't worry as we list a few things which you need to be sure of, as a first time parent.

This one is a short, quick and to-the-point- guide that can help you deal with every mood your baby shows.

To make your baby sleep 

 

This is the most difficult, dreadful and traumatic experiences of first time parents. According to experts, an infant needs at least 16 hours of sleep per day to be counted as healthy and active. Some of the things you can do-

• Keep him engaged in activities in the day, so that he would get good sleep in the night. Else, you can reduce the day time sleep. 

• Get him accustomed to a bedtime routine, so that his body performs the task automatically when it is time for it. 

• Ensure he is comfortable when it is bedtime. Ensure to change nappies, feed him milk, and clothe him right and off the lights. When his stomach is full, he will sleep better. 

• Don't rush to your baby the moment you hear a sound from the bedroom, he may simply be squirming in his sleep, but if you he cries or shows inconvenience, gently reassure him of your presence.

To massage your baby

 

Your mum still remembers the aged maid who specialized in giving body massages to kids, including you. And now, the same maid, has been called to massage your baby, this comforts you as she is tried and tested.

Yes, as baby massage is important for healthy growth and nourishment, it is important that you get it done who knows it best. But at home, too, you can give your baby a gentle massage -

• Find a carpeted floor in a warm room. Simply lay baby on a soft fabric and warm a little baby oil and gently massage the baby's chest and tummy -- stroking across the shoulders, downward movement on the arms and legs and upward movements on the back. 

• Be gentle, yet firm. 

• Sing or speak to your baby while you are at it, so that the baby's mind gets diverted from the massage to your lip movement. 

• Do not oil baby's palms or fingers for the fear of the kid putting them in their mouths or eyes. 

• Do not massage the baby just before or after feeding, or when the baby is ill. Do not wake the baby up for a massage. Avoid rashes, wounds or areas where the baby has got his injections or vaccines as it may hurt.

To change nappies

 

Diapers are a boon, for parents, for babies and for all others who are close to both of them! But though diapers have made life easier for all, these can sometimes be a cause of worry for parents, especially when a diaper becomes the cause of skin problems, including rashes and eczema in infants.

But most of the diaper rashes can be treated at home, just remember to-

• Switch to dye-free diapers as an allergy to dyes in the diapers can cause a reaction. 

•  Check and change diapers frequently, especially if they are wet or soiled.

• Dry the diaper area properly after a bath. Wash the diaper area with mild fragrance-free cleanser or plain water. If the rash is severe, use a squirt bottle to cleanse without rubbing. 

• Let the diaper area air-dry fully before putting on a fresh diaper. Apply powder.

To stop you baby from crying 

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This is a problem every parent faces. And you try everything possible to ensure your baby stops crying. You have tried all that you could, you feeded your baby, rocked and rolled, talked and sang to him/her, changed the wet and soiled nappy with a dry one, yet, no difference? Try these-

• Burp- For the first three or four months, you want to make sure you can get your baby to expel any gas they may have - even if they are breast fed. Gently pat and stroke the back upwards, walk up and down the stairs while trying to burp them. 

• Set a routine- this will make the baby's body clock set, and will not confuse the bay with regard to his/her sleep times and feed times, play times and other times! A good amount of daytime and night time sleep will not make the baby irritable. 

• Try Music- Some babies may be distracted from crying with music, even just the sound of a rattle may be enough. 

• Show visuals- taking a round around the house, showing stars, showing pictures from an ‘animal book', showing mobiles or other electronic items can divert attention 

• Massage your baby - Try stroking your baby using rhythmical movements. Many babies enjoy their backs or heads being touched. 

• Let go- There are opinions, that say that babies cry to vent out things from their past birth and hence, if everything else fails one should let them cry for a few minutes, after which they would become quiet. See, if this works for you too!

To bathe your baby

 

Chances for your baby to become dirty, besides the diaper changes, are mild. Moreover, natural oils protect a new born baby's skin, but too frequent bathing removes the natural oils leaving the baby's skin vulnerable to any potential allergen, thereby triggering a reaction like eczema. For the first month or so, a sponge bath two or three times a week will keep your baby safely clean. And you can keep cleaning the baby's mouth and diaper area in between bathing days. Limit your use of baby skin products. If necessary, use only a small amount of lotion on dry skin areas.To read more about Ways to Care for your New Born Baby

Author,

Medimanage

Baby Yeast Infection

Not just can adults with skin folds get a yeast infection, but so can those wondrously-pinchable chunky babies and toddlers. When working as a toddler teacher, I had near opposite both sexes of children with yeast infections. One of my tot girls had a huge rash under her armpit. When I fine this out to her mother, she was brought to the physician that identical day. The next morning, her mother came to us with a cream - it was a cream to kill the yeast infection under her armpit! It is truly worried to have a infant who cannot talk, ultimately approach down with a yeast infection.

On a baby, the merely link of signs you get from a girl is just as unnerving to the son as to the mother. If your daughter cries every time she urinates into her diaper, and has a lot of redness and swelling in her vaginal area, then it may be time to take her to the pediatrician. I also had a tot boy end up with a yeast infection. This daughter happened to have his foreskin attached to his penis still. If you do not know, abundance children at present take place to have the foreskin extracted within a few days after birth - whether for antiseptic purposes or religious reasons.

If the foreskin is not pulled back from the head of the penis and cleaned properly, then a yeast infection can occur. One this child, the reocurring yeast infections became so much that his parents finally decided to put the child by way of surgery (at 21 months of age) to have the foreskin extracted. Now, this does not mean that an uncircumcised boy will always get yeast infections, but the parents do require to make reliable that they are properly cleaning the area. This also property that the infant must be taught to do this as a young man, or, as an adult, that man can get a yeast infection on all sides the head of his penis.

 

Infants can also be impressionable to a form of yeast infection in the mouth, called thrush. Thrush is seen in the mouth a small, white patches on the insides of the cheeks, and the roof of an infant's mouth. It is normally painless, but can suit strained enough for an infant to deny to breastfeed. That being said, a mother can covenant a yeast infection in her breasts if her infant has had thrush. Both the infant and the mother would demand to be treated for the infection.

On the mother, minute red or white patches can show on the breast, as well as red or purple discolored nipples. During breastfeeding, the mother may experience shooting pain in the breast, or even a more sensitized mamilla area. Many antibiotics to treat yeast infections can be passed by way of breast milk, so doctors truly indigence to display precaution when treating this type of infection. Some mothers testify by food more yogurts that contains suitable bacteria, and lessening ingestion of yeasty foods.

Author,

Ben Johnson

9 Home Remedies For Baby Eczema

It is a widespread common disease. But in general, babies are more likely to suffer from eczema. And as baby skin is soft and sensitive, it requires more gentle treatment. Thankfully there are quite a few home remedies for baby eczema you can try.

1. Oatmeal baths are recommended by doctors, grandmothers and mothers for the healing power of oatmeal baths. While this bath may be a bit messy, it soothes and clams the dry skin and itchy parts of the body naturally. See the resources below on how to make your own oatmeal bath or buy your own. 

Either way, remember to purchase only organic products.

2. Use a natural aloe Vera lotion several times a day, especially after bathing baby. Reapply as often as need to keep baby's skin from drying out. Avoid any harsh cleansers and make sure baby is getting plenty to drink to moisturize from the inside out as well. Incidentally breastfed babies experience fewer and milder episodes of eczema.

3. As you know that dry skin can be the reason for eczema, so you ought to prevent your baby's skin from drying out. Nevertheless, you ought to not use any scented products, or products that contain alcohol. Kid lotion ought to be no issue, and it ought to be applied around two times a day.

4. Virgin Coconut Oil. One of the many health benefits of virgin coconut oil is the healing properties of the skin. Virgin coconut oil is also an antibacterial which may be especially helpful for those people with very raw eczema conditions who may be prone to infections of the skin. This oil is now widely available in may health food stores and grocery stores.

5. Eczema can also occur as a result of food allergies. If you have a family history of food or environmental allergy, your baby may also be experiencing sensitivities to something in his diet or environment. Check with your baby's health care provider and consider an elimination diet or other measures to track down allergens.

6. Keep bedrooms, living areas free of dust mites (a common eczema causing agent).

7. Avoid scratching at all cost. This is thought about to be the most important system to cure your kid eczema. However, this is not an simple thing to do at all because your kid does not understand that scratching makes things worse. Most children instinctively scratch. So, what you ought to do is to keep your baby's nails short.

8. Some babies experience eczema because they are allergic to detergents, which are found in nearly all personal care, cleaning and laundry products. You may want to investigate using pure soap for all cleaning and laundry as well as bathing for some time to see if your baby's eczema improves.

9. Besides, try not to make use of any strong soaps, or bubble bath which could irritate the baby's skin. After that, apply natural moisturizer in order to lock in water from the bath.

Author,

Charles Zoe

A Summary of Some Common Skin Rashes in Babies

A rash is eruptions of red spots or patches on the skin and is a sign of an underlying problem caused by reactions to substances, allergies or infections

Cradle cap is a condition whereby patches of greasy yellow flakes and small pimple-like bumps appear on the scalps of healthy babies. Sometimes it may appear on the eyebrows, ears and other areas where sebaceous glands are located. It can occur in any baby, and appear during the early weeks of life and will clear by the sixth month. Some dermatologists think that high levels of maternal hormones are transmitted to the baby during the final weeks of pregnancy. This makes the sebaceous (oil) glands in the baby's skin hyperactive which trigger overproduction of sebum which not only overstimulates the growth of new skin cells but also binds the old skin cells into flakes and crusts. It often has a mild unpleasant smell and does not cause any discomfort to the baby.

Some doctors recommend leaving it alone but I prefer to treat it early because I have seen many cases whereby the crust becomes so thick that whenever it is rubbed, large chunks of hair comes off leaving a very red and raw looking area. Treatment is to apply a liberal amount of baby oil to the affected area about 20 minutes before the baby's bath. This will allow the crust to become soft and easy to remove. During the bath, apply a little baby shampoo to the head and using a soft hair brush or face cloth, gently brush or rub the crust off. Do this once a day until the crust has been completely removed. Sometimes it may recur after a few days so continue to wash baby's hair in the same way. Once the baby's sebaceous (oil) glands settle down the condition will disappear.

N.B. The oil application must be shampooed out to prevent an oily buildup which may make the condition worse. Do not try and remove the crusts and scales with the tip of a fingernail.

Heat rash consists of tiny blisters filled with sweat. It forms when the pores become blocked and prevent the sweat glands from releasing the sweat or when heat and humidity exceed the ability of the sweat glands to cool the body. Babies are especially vulnerable because their ability to sweat is not fully developed and they often wear or lie on waterproof materials. It normally develops around the neck, face, armpits and sometimes on the chest and back.

Western medication includes applying calamine lotion and antihistamines for severe itching. Sometimes applying a light dusting of corn starch powder may help to relieve the itchiness. Chinese traditional remedy is to bath the baby with boiled dried bitter gourd vine daily for 3 days.

It is best to prevent the condition from developing by dressing the baby in light cotton clothes especially in warm or hot weather. Avoid laying the baby on a plastic covered mattress or pad. Do not apply moisturizing cream or lotions or use bath oils for babies under 3 months as these products may clog the pores. Do not over wrap the baby in layers of clothes and swaddling blanket.

Nappy rash is often due to infrequent nappy change causing irritation from ammonia which is released when bacteria starts breaking down the contents of a dirty nappy. It could be due to an allergy to your washing powder or fabric conditioner if your baby wears cloth diapers or a food/drug allergy especially antibiotics. The genital area, buttocks, groins and sometimes the upper thighs will look red and inflamed. It can be dry or moist and sometimes look pimply. Babies with nappy rash may be very fussy and cries frequently or does not seem bothered at all.

"Prevention is better than treatment" so the best defence against nappy rash is a dry bottom.

Infantile eczema is an itchy dry scaly rash usually seen on the cheeks or chin, but may show up on the head, trunk, back of arms, or front of legs and is not contagious. It is first noticed at 2 to 5 months of age and is most common in families with history of allergies or asthma. In most cases it will settle down by the time the child reaches school age but for some it may continue to be a life long problem. The frequency and severity of flare ups can be dramatically reduced with careful daily washing using a hypoallergenic soap and applying moisturisers, topical steroids when needed. Avoid trigger factors such as excessive sweating, woollen clothing, soaps and bubble bath. Sometimes it may be necessary to give baby antihistamine if the itch is very intense and is making the baby very irritable.

Sometimes the eczema can become infected by bacteria and this causes extensive redness, swelling and weeping of the affected area. In this case it may be necessary for the doctor to prescribe an antibiotic cream together with a steroid cream. Children with severe eczema usually also have hay fever and asthma.

Urticaria or hives are red or pink raised areas on the skin that are very itchy and warm to the touch. It may appear on any part of the body and usually last from a few hours to a few days, but can stay for weeks or even months in some cases. Hives are usually caused by food allergies with the most frequent culprits being eggs, shellfish, chocolate, food additives, colouring or preservatives. It can also be due to allergy to certain drugs or in response to contact with animals especially cats or from insect bites.

It may come on after exposure to extreme temperature especially heat or chemicals. Most often hives will disappear on its own after the allergic reaction is over. If it causes itching and discomfort, the doctor may prescribe an oral antihistamine and calamine lotion to apply on the rashes. Avoid giving your child allergy causing food until the hives have subsided. Later try to find the offending culprit by reintroducing the food item one at a time and once you know the offending food it is important to let your child's caretakers or school teachers know so that the food is avoided. This is because very rarely, hives can develop in the mouth and throat which can obstruct the child's airways. You can put this information on sticker labels on your child's feeding utensils especially in preschools when your child is too young to tell the caretakers.

Traditional Chinese therapy recommends not bathing the child as it will cause more rashes to appear and make the rash itch more. Treatment is to heat up some rice wine and apply it on the rashes 3 times a day. Most often the rashes will disappear after 2 days.

Hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a skin rash with flat or raised red spots on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet and sometimes on the buttocks. Often the rash will form tiny blisters which look like the chickenpox rash but it does not itch. A day or two later the child may develop sores or blisters on the tongue, gums and inside of the cheeks. They begin as small red spots on the tongue, gums or mucous membranes which then develop into blisters or sores.

It is caused by Coxsackie virus A16 which belongs to a group of viruses called enterovirus and is normally not serious. Infection is spread by direct contact with saliva, nose and throat discharges, fluid from the blisters or the stool of an infected person who is most contagious during the first week of the illness. All infected cases recover without medical treatment by 7 to 10 days. It is most common between ages 6 months and 4 years. Very rarely, it may be caused by another strain of Coxsackie virus EV71 whereby the child develops aseptic meningitis or encephalitis (Inflammation of the brain). This strain may be fatal as in the case in Sarawak in 1997.

Treatment is to provide relief from fever or pain from the mouth ulcers and give plenty of fluids. There is no immunization for HFMD.

Thrush or candidiasis is a fungal infection from Candida albicans. It appears as a red bumpy rash in the diaper area and the bumps are sometimes pus-filled. It may be worse in the skin folds and does not respond to diaper cream. Often the primary source of infection is in the mouth which then spreads to the nappy area from the contaminated stools. It normally starts as a couple of white patches on the sides of the mouth and if not treated quickly can spread until the tongue is coated as well. This makes it painful for baby to suckle. The creamy patches look like milk curds and therefore is easily missed. Use a cotton bud to wipe the white patches. If the patches cannot be removed it confirms that the baby has thrush therefore should be taken to the doctor who may prescribe Daktarin gel for the oral thrush and cream for the nappy area. If the infection is severe it may be necessary for the doctor to prescribe Daktacort which has a small amount of steroid in it to speed up the healing process. All feeding equipment must be boiled thoroughly for 10 minutes to prevent recurrence.

Roseola infantum or false measles is a viral illness in young children between the ages of 6 months and 2 years. The rash is pink and may have small flat spots or raised bumps. These spots may have a lighter "halo" around them and may turn white if you press on them.

Roseola usually starts out with a sudden high fever often over 103° Fahrenheit or 39.5° Celsius. During this time, the child may appear fussy or irritable and may have decreased appetite, mild diarrhoea and swollen lymph glands in the neck. The fever typically lasts three to five days and end abruptly followed by the telltale rash which is usually seen on the trunk and neck, but it can extend to the limbs and face. The rash may last for several hours or days.

A diagnosis of roseola cannot be made until the fever drops and the rash appears, so the doctor may order tests to make sure that the fever is not caused by another infection.

Roseola is contagious and spreads through tiny drops of fluid from the nose and throat of infected people. There is no known way to prevent the spread of roseola. Repeat cases of roseola may occur, but they are not common.

Treatment is to keep your baby well hydrated with lots of fluids and to control the fever to prevent a febrile seizure as about 10 to 15 percent of children with roseola have a febrile seizure.

Knowing the different types of rash and treatment is important to help alleviate your baby's discomfort.

Author,

By Cecilia Koh

Are Strawberry Hemangiomas Dangerous To My Baby?

A strawberry hemangioma is the medical term for a red birthmark common on infants and young children. They rarely pose any threat to the baby's health unless it's due to their location or size.  Surgery, no matter how routine, is always dangerous and careful consideration should be given before electing to have a harmless birthmark removed. Rarely will a doctor recommend any surgery or treatment for a strawberry hemangioma strictly for cosmetic reasons.

The best place to go for questions regarding hemangiomas is your baby's pediatrician. He will probably have already noticed it and explained to you what it is and is not; but he will welcome any further questions you have as your child grows.  Strawberry hemangiomas are more common in girls than boys, may show up after birth, and can be located anywhere on the body. One study concluded that 4 – 5 % of all light skinned births will have or develop a strawberry hemangioma.

There is no real cause, or risk factors, for strawberry hemangiomas. Most of these birthmarks are painless and cause the infant or child no problems.  Generally they will shrink and fade over time, with most be gone completely before the age of ten. If a hemangioma is located in a place that impairs vision or hinders some other activity, laser surgery may be used to remove it. Laser surgery is not recommended for cosmetic reasons, as the surgery can have side effects. Another possible treatment for strawberry hemangiomas that impair some function is steroids; but they are never used for cosmetic reasons as they too can have serious side effects when used in infants. Other treatments being developed involved beta blockers and embolization. But neither are these to be used for cosmetic reasons.

If your baby has a red birthmark, do not be alarmed. It is likely harmless and will go away over time. Even if the mark is easily noticed, do not be embarrassed or anxious. Your baby is perfectly healthy.

Author,

By Tiffany Windhurst

How To Diagnose And Treat Baby Yeast Infection On Face By Acting On The Spot

Despite common belief, babies can develop baby yeast infection on face. Most people think this condition only affect woman but babies can be affected as well. However, it's not a very painful condition. If the baby is affected they must be treated ASAP to prevent further secondary effects.

Can the use of antibiotics cause infection in my baby?

A common question is whether a baby can be infected with yeast because of antibiotics. Many mothers would like to find out the answer and I hope this article will shed some light to this topic. The answer is that it is possible and it can happen directly or indirectly. Let me explain.

Some of the symptoms of baby yeast infection on face are white patches on cheeks and mouth area as well as white discharged liquid. You should take into account that the main cause of yeast infection is giving antibiotics to the baby due to the mother's intake and it goes to the breast milk, or if the baby was given antibiotics for any reason.

If the mother breastfeeds an infected baby it's worth saying that she should know she might develop the infection as well. She should ask the baby's physician about what to do, since some mothers prefer to breastfeed anyway and be treated accordingly. A well-known home remedy is applying yogurt to the affected skin before and after breastfeeding the baby to get a soothing effect.

Other ways of treating baby yeast infection at home is apple vinegar baths, or applying concentrated hydrogen peroxide to the affected skin which helps in the healing process and has no contraindications since.

A household name for baby yeast infection on face is "thrush", this is not as common a disease as diaper rash, but needs to be immediately taken care from the moment you notice the white patches in the inside of the mouth, such as tongue or gums. Do not delay your visit to your physician when you notice the first symptoms, particularly if you have had no idea of home remedies for the infection.

Baby yeast infection on face treated on time prevents the baby from developing a more complex disease, and if properly treated it saves a lot of pain and time to the baby and the parents since this infection can be developed either in boys or girls. Thus, if diagnosed and treated rightaway you can rest assure the baby will be fine.

Organic Baby Gifts For the Green Baby

It used to be that organic was only about food. Now there are organic cotton baby clothes and beddings, and organic toys and furniture. For parents who are concerned about the environment and are choosy about the things they will use for the baby, receiving organic baby gifts will be very much appreciated.

Organic items are soft and gentle on baby's sensitive skin. They are all natural and free from synthetic materials that could harm the baby or the environment. They are especially recommended for premature babies who tend to have very sensitive skin. Organic products contain no chemicals that can harm babies' health. Choose products that are 100% Certified Organic. They are made from materials grown without harmful pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

Baby clothes and accessories like blankets, diapers and towels can be made from organic cotton or organic bamboo fabric. These materials are very soft and comfortable. They wick moisture away from the skin, keeping baby drier. When you give an organic baby gift set containing sleeping suits, baby blanket, shirts, hat and booties for a baby, you know you are giving something unique and special.

Babies automatically put things in their mouths. This is another reason why you should consider giving something safe and chemical-free for babies. Besides, organic baby gifts are no longer very expensive or hard to find. They are readily available online or at local stores and you can order organic gift baskets for the eco-friendly family.

Baby clothes, shoes, blankets and toys made of organic materials are sold in shops specializing in organic baby products. You can even purchase an organic baby gift basket containing baby bath towels, wash cloths, toys and soap made from certified organic ingredients. If you are a do-it-yourself person, you can put together an assortment of organic baby clothes and accessories including organic bath soap and shampoo. Wrap everything inside an organic baby bath towel or blanket and tie it with a pretty raffia ribbon. Mommy will be thrilled to receive this unique gift for her baby.

With our growing awareness about health and the environment, parents are concerned about the safety of their precious darlings. Organic baby gift products that are free from harmful chemicals and harsh bleaches are favored by discriminating parents. When you give baby clothes, stuffed toys, natural wooden toys, blankets, etc. made from organic materials, you are showing the parents that you care for their baby as much as they do.

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Some Tips of Baby Care

Having a baby means giving much care for him if you would like to see him grow well. If you are a new mother who has a little bit of information about baby care, you need to read this article. It will give you tips about baby care; so, read it and take advantage from it.

Bottle feeding

If you give a bottle to feed your baby, you must be sure that the bottle is clean and sterilized. To make it clean, you need to scrub it with washing liquids then boil the bottle for 25 minutes. It could kill dangerous organism that could affect the milk.

Clothing

Choosing the right clothes is also important thing you must do. In season of winter, you need to choose trousers, sweaters and other woolens. The clothes which are worn in summer must be light cotton ones. If you use the right clothes for your baby, you could avoid the irritation so your baby will feel comfort.

Taking a Bath

Taking a bath process is not easy thing to do. When bathing, you must be sure that the water could access all of parts of the body. You need to scrub him with baby cream and baby cream. It makes your baby has a good smile so your baby will look so cute. Then, you need to apply a baby powder that could enhance the innocent looks.

Having the Time with Your Baby

The most crucial tips of baby care are time and attention. You need to give enough time and attention for your baby. It could show that you love and care for him. As you know that a baby has ability to recognize people's faces that are close with him.

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Baby Care

Baby care like most other things in life can be as easy or difficult as you want it to be. First time mothers are naturally more anxious compared to women who have had babies before. They have a thousand questions and worries, not to mention insecurities about being able to look after their babies. The situation is even tougher for single parents who do not have any family support. 

Fortunately help is close at hand in the form of various books and baby sites that answer a woman's every question on how to take care of her child.

It is important to remember that each child is unique. Therefore it is best not to compare your offspring with those of the neighbors or anybody else's in the family. Milestone guidelines for the baby's development are just that - guidelines. Different babies learn to crawl, walk, and talk at different ages. Some may be friendly while others may be shy. Some may be better at certain games and not interested in others. One of the first rules of baby care is that it is unfair to judge or push your child in any way.

Small children require a different sensitivity not to mention a completely different set of products for their daily toilet. Baby skin is very sensitive and prone to rash. There are many reputed companies who have a special line of products dedicated to infant care. It is possible that some may work better for your children so do not hesitate to experiment. But once something works, it's best to stay with it.

 As a rule of thumb, less is more where a small child is concerned.

It has been proven that mother's milk is the best form of baby care that a new mom can give her child. Unless it is not possible for any reason, a child should be on an exclusive breast milk diet for at least the first six months. Working mothers can choose to store breast milk to feed their children while they are away. Refrigerated or frozen breast milk can last up to four weeks under the right conditions.

 There is in fact research that shows that women who breast feed their children bond better and also lose weight faster. For the child, the breast milk translates to higher IQ and immunity against a host of diseases.

Baby care is not an exact science so trust your instincts when in doubt. It also helps to have a good pediatrician that you can call without any hesitation. All mothers or caregivers should learn basic first aid and other safety procedures as children are prone to accidents. Sites dedicated to new moms talk about many other useful facts and tips that help out in rearing a child. Those interested can choose to subscribe to a newsletter. They can also post questions and get answers for their queries.

In summary, it is good to have all the help that you can get, be it of a grandparent, nanny, spouse, book, or website. This is one area of life where you will be learning constantly.

Baby care [http://www.babycareindex.com/] can be easy or difficult as you want it to be. Read more about caring for your baby [http://www.babycareindex.com/category/caring-for-your-baby] by visiting the provided links.

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