Since so many of the things your baby will do are new to you, it can sometimes be hard to tell what is normal and what is a sign of an illness.
Normal Baby "Problems"
Fortunately, many of the "problems" that parents notice are usually normal. These include:
- periodic breathing - short periods of slow and then fast breathing
- baby rashes - including milia (small white pimples) and erythema toxicum (larger red bumps)
- dry-looking, flaky skin - this is usually normal "baby skin"
- hiccups and gas
- acrocyanosis - the condition in which a baby has blue hands and feet, while the rest of her body is still pink. It is a sign of an immature circulatory system and not low oxygen.
Jaundice
Up to half of newborn babies develop
jaundice, a yellowing of the skin, in their first few days. Fortunately, their jaundice usually goes away on its own without treatment. Jaundice typically reaches a peak level by four to five days, and may need treatment with
phototherapy if it gets too high. That makes it important to see your pediatrician to monitor your baby's jaundice levels so they don't reach a high level this first week.
Infections
Infections are not common during your baby's first week, but it is important to recognize signs and symptoms of infections, including:
- fever (temp at or above 100.4 F)
- low temperature
- trouble breathing
- missing feedings
- sleeping too much
- irritability
- vomiting
Losing Too Much Weight
Although the average baby loses 5% to 10% of their birth weight during his first week, losing more than 10% can be a sign that your baby isn't getting enough to eat.
Reflux
Spitting up or
reflux is common, affecting up to half of all babies. It usually isn't a problem unless your baby is having problems gaining weight, is choking, or is frequently fussy.
