Newborn Care:
- Q: What is the best way to care for my newborn’s umbilical cord?
- A: Keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry. Cleanse it with plain water and cotton or clean gauze if needed, especially after diaper changes. Fold the diaper down below the stump to allow air circulation. Avoid using alcohol or ointments unless specifically recommended by your Bacolod pediatrician. The cord will typically fall off within 1-3 weeks.
- Q: How often should I bathe my newborn?
- A: Newborns don’t need daily baths. Two to three times a week is usually sufficient. Over-bathing can dry out their delicate skin. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free baby wash.
- Q: What are the signs of jaundice in a newborn?
- A: Jaundice is characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It’s common in newborns but should be monitored. If your baby’s skin appears yellow, especially within the first few days of life, consult your Bacolod pediatrician promptly.
- Q: How can I soothe my baby’s colic?
- A: Colic, characterized by excessive crying in otherwise healthy babies, can be distressing. Gentle swaddling, rocking, white noise, and warm baths can sometimes provide relief. If your baby’s crying is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, consult your Philippines pediatrician.
Well-Child Visits:
- Q: How often should my child have well-child visits?
- A: Well-child visits are crucial for monitoring your child’s growth and development. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a specific schedule of well-child visits, especially during the first few years of life. Generally, newborns should be seen within a few days of birth, then at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 24 months. After age two, annual check-ups are usually recommended. Your Bacolod pediatrician can personalize a schedule based on your child’s individual needs.
- Q: What happens during a well-child visit?
- A: During a well-child visit, we’ll perform a comprehensive physical exam, check your child’s growth and development, administer necessary vaccinations, discuss nutrition and safety, and address any concerns you may have. These visits are a great opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance on various aspects of child health.
Vaccinations:
- Q: Why are vaccinations important?
- A: Vaccinations are essential for protecting your child from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. They work by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies, providing immunity against specific infections. Following the recommended vaccination schedule is one of the best ways to keep your child healthy. The Philippines Department of Health provides a recommended immunization schedule that your Bacolod pediatrician will follow.
- Q: Are vaccines safe?
- A: Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and safety evaluations before they are approved for use. Serious side effects are extremely rare. The benefits of vaccinations far outweigh the risks. We’re happy to discuss any concerns you have about vaccine safety.
Common Childhood Illnesses:
- Q: What should I do if my child has a fever?
- A: A fever is a common symptom of many childhood illnesses. For children over 6 months old, a fever is generally defined as a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. For infants under 6 months, any rectal temperature over 100.4°F (38°C) should prompt a call to your doctor. You can use acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) for fever relief (always follow dosage instructions based on your child’s weight), but it’s important to address the underlying cause of the fever. If your child is very young, seems very ill, or has other concerning symptoms (like difficulty breathing, rash, or lethargy), contact your Bacolod pediatrician immediately.
- Q: How can I tell the difference between a cold and the flu?
- A: Colds and the flu share some similar symptoms, but the flu tends to come on more suddenly and be more severe. Flu symptoms often include high fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, and cough. Colds usually involve milder symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat. If you’re concerned about your child’s symptoms, it’s always best to consult with a Philippines pediatrician.
Feeding and Nutrition:
- Q: What is the best way to feed my baby?
- A: Breastfeeding is the recommended feeding method for the first six months of life and beyond, as it provides optimal nutrition and antibodies. If breastfeeding isn’t possible, infant formula is a healthy alternative. We can discuss your feeding options and provide guidance based on your individual circumstances.
- Q: When should I introduce solid foods to my baby?
- A: The AAP recommends introducing complementary foods (solids) around six months of age. We’ll discuss appropriate first foods and how to introduce them safely at your child’s well-child visits.
General Child Health:
- Q: How can I prevent the spread of germs at home?
- A: Frequent handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Teach your children proper handwashing techniques and encourage them to wash their hands regularly, especially before meals and after using the bathroom.
- Q: What should I include in a basic first-aid kit for my child?
- A: A basic first-aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen), a thermometer, and tweezers.
- Q: How can I help my child develop healthy sleep habits?
- A: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, creating a relaxing sleep environment, and ensuring your child gets enough sleep are crucial for healthy sleep habits.