Essential information that you should know.
In learning to live with your new baby, it is likely you will do a lot of worrying in the first few weeks, especially if it is your first. Is it eating enough? Is it eating too much? Is my baby too hot? Too cold? This paranoia is normal but remember babies are remarkably resilient. If there is anything wrong, you are sure to notice. The following symptoms could indicate something more serious and require attention.
- blood in your baby’s bowel motions
- blood or green tinged bile in your baby’s vomit
- a sudden loss of interest in feeding, especially a young baby who refuses to suck
- a constant high fever or high temperature (38 degrees Celsius or more)
- constipation
- severe or long-lasting swelling of the belly
- sudden vomiting and diarrhoea
- persistent crying and screaming
- breathing difficulty
- abnormal discharge, especially from the ears
- a sudden unidentifiable rash
- any unusual swelling or lumps, particularly those that are painful when touched
- loss of interest in surroundings
- abnormal sleepiness or floppiness
- thick, smelly urine
- weird posture or body movements
If you have any doubts, call your doctor or midwife.