A-Z HEALTH

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Nappy rash

Almost one-third of babies and infants in nappies have nappy rash. It doesn’t usually develop in newborns. The main cause is wearing a wet or unclean nappy for an extended period. Not cleaning the buttocks or changing the diapers often, using soap, detergent or chemical laced baby wipes for the baby can also lead to nappy rash. The skin on the child’s buttocks will look red and sore. Sometimes nappy rash might spread up to the child’s tummy or spread up towards the baby’s thighs and back. Some areas of skin might be raised or inflamed, and there might be disruptions in the skin.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)

Injury to the inner surface of intestines seen in preterm infants is known as NEC. It is most probably due to decreased blood supply to the premature new-born, which results in injury. NEC patients present with swollen abdomen and may vomit a greenish yellow vomit. Abdominal X-Rays are used for diagnosing. Surgeries are often undertaken, and chances of survival have increased to 60-80%.

Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis might present frequently during pregnancy. A pregnant woman is three times more likely to get nose bleeds than a non-pregnant woman of the same age. However, it’s not a serious medical complication and there’s not much to worry about unless you lose a lot of blood. About 20% of pregnant women experience nosebleeds.

Blood vessels of the nose are delicate and due to effects of progesterone, these vessels expand. Blood flow increases too during pregnancy which often results in damage to these vessels in the nose. This causes nosebleeds and it might also occur while you’re asleep.

Women more prone to nose bleeds are the ones suffering from cold, sinus infections and those staying in cold, dry weather. High blood pressure and clotting abnormalities also predispose to nosebleeds.

Below are some tips to stop nosebleeds:

1. Sit upright, do not lie down

2. Apply pressure on the nose by pinching it. Maintain pressure for about 10 mins.

3. Lean forward and breathe through the mouth

4. Apply cold pack. This helps constrict the vessels and reduces blood flow. A pack of frozen peas would do the trick.

5. Avoid strenuous activity at least 12 hours after a nosebleed.

6. Also, avoid bending

It is a good idea to see a doctor if the bleeding continues after 30 minutes, or if its associated with chest pain or if the flow is heavy. Since these nosebleeds might cause loss of blood, including iron rich foods in the diet is advised. In order to prevent nosebleeds, keeping the body hydrated should be number one on the list. Avoid blowing the nose too hard. Keep the mouth open during sneezing to prevent the build-up of pressure in the nose. Avoid dry and cold places or use a lubricant to keep the nose hydrated. Another factor that should be avoided is irritants such as smoke or chemicals.