Baby Care – Looking After Your Little Ones
Ever feel like there are just so many things to look out for with a new baby that you don’t know where to start? It can be really overwhelming. You’re doing a great job, so don’t worry and be kind to yourself. Here, our expert pharmacists list out just some of the most common queries that they receive from parents in our pharmacies…
Blocked Nose
Saline nasal drops will help clear a blocked nose. If you are finding these difficult to apply – try some capsules containing light aromatic oils and sprinkle on the bed sheets. (Not suitable for children under three months)
Colic
Symptoms of Colic include
- Excessive Crying
- High Pitched Piercing Sound
- Clenched Fists
- Excessive Gas
- Knees Drawn Up to Chest
- Red Face
- Grimacing/Frowning
- Difficult to Comfort
Colic in young babies is not a permanent condition and one they generally grow out of. Colic may be caused by wind or by a temporary reaction to the lactose in milk which can cause bloated stomach or tummy upset.
Talk to your Haven Pharmacist about the products available to help reduce the effects of colic.
Constipation
Babies should only very rarely be constipated. If your baby is constipated, please contact your Haven pharmacist of GP.
Cradle Cap (Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis)
Cradle cap is a greasy, yellow, flaky condition on the scalp of recently born babies – which can be easily treated. Your Haven Pharmacist will be able to advise you on treatments containing liquid paraffin in addition to a mild shampoo.
Immunization
Babies and children are immunized to protect them from certain diseases. Please consult your doctor about the vaccination routine for your baby or child.
Nappy Rash
Most babies will suffer from nappy rash at some time. There are many creams or powders that will help to prevent, treat and soothe the condition. It’s important to change the nappy frequently when a baby has nappy rash as the baby’s urine may make the rash worse. In severe cases and when infection is involved, the condition can be distressing and require medical attention. Ask your Haven Pharmacist if in any doubt about the severity of the rash.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush appears like white patches on the cheeks and tongue. If a baby is being bottle fed or is using a soother, then make sure to rinse the soother or bottle teat with water. Do not place the teat/soother in your mouth and do not let other children use the teat/soother as thrush can spread easily in this way. If you think your baby may have thrush, ask your Haven Pharmacist for help.
Teething and Pain
Paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used to help reduce the pain of teething. Ibuprofen should not be given to children who are asthmatic. It is important to use the correct dosage and not to overdose.
**Please Note: These drugs should not be used routinely. Aspirin should not be given to children under 16.**
Skin Conditions and Rashes
If your baby has an unusual rash or skin condition, make sure to talk to your local Haven pharmacist or your GP.
Worms
Worms may be visible in the nappy or in the toilet bowl. Quite often the child will be scratching their bottom and may be grinding their teeth when they are asleep. Talk to your pharmacist about the best advice for worm treatment.
This list is not exhaustive and there are many more conditions that can affect babies. A great information resource for expectant and new parents is MyChild.ie from the HSE.
Always remember to talk to your local Haven Pharmacist or your Family GP if you are concerned your baby or child may have a health problem. If in doubt, get it checked out!
Haven Pharmacy… we’re here for you every little step of the way
