21 (Common and Uncommon) Baby Conditions You Didn’t Know About

Babies are a joy, but they can also be a little mysterious. Even if you are a parent, there are probably some baby conditions that you didn't know about. In this blog post, we will discuss 21 common and uncommon baby conditions. We will provide information on what each condition is, how to recognize it, and what you can do to treat it. Keep reading for more information!

Photo by Colin Maynard on Unsplash

Colic

Colic is a common condition in babies that causes them to cry excessively. While the exact cause of colic is unknown, it is thought to be caused by gas, an immature digestive system, or other issues. Symptoms include crying for more than 3 hours per day, at least 3 days per week. For example, your baby may cry for a few hours, then stop and start again later in the day. Colic usually resolves itself by the time your baby is 3 months old, but in the meantime, you can try a few things to help soothe your baby's crying. These include swaddling, rocking, and using a pacifier.

Acid Reflux

This occurs when stomach acid moves up into the esophagus and can cause pain and discomfort. Symptoms include frequent spitting up or vomiting after eating, arching of the back during feeding, and excessive crying after feedings. For example, if your baby cries instantly after a feeding, it could be acid reflux. You can help manage acid reflux in babies by keeping them upright during feedings, burping them frequently, and avoiding overfeeding.

Pyloric Stenosis

This is a condition where there is a narrowing of the opening between the stomach and small intestine that makes it difficult for food to pass through. Symptoms include frequent projectile vomiting, dehydration, and weight loss. For example, if your baby vomits after every feeding and shows signs of dehydration, it may be pyloric stenosis. Treatment involves surgery to widen the opening and must be done as soon as possible to avoid complications.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

This is a more serious form of acid reflux that can cause damage to the esophagus. Symptoms include difficulty eating or swallowing, persistent coughing or choking, acid in the throat or mouth, and chest pain. For example, if your baby has difficulty eating or swallowing and experiences chest pain, it could be GERD. Treatment options include medications to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, as well as lifestyle changes such as avoiding certain foods and keeping your baby upright during feedings.

Food Allergies

Food allergies are an immune system response to certain foods that cause symptoms such as hives, rashes, swelling of lips or tongue, itching, difficulty breathing or wheezing. It is important to identify which foods trigger these reactions so they can be avoided in the future. Treatment usually involves avoiding the food that triggers the reaction and taking medications to reduce inflammation or control symptoms.

Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA)

This is an allergy to the proteins in cow's milk and can cause a variety of symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, rash or hives, excessive crying after consuming dairy products, and wheezing.

Soy Allergy

Like cow's milk protein allergy, this is an allergy to the proteins in soy products. Common symptoms include hives or other skin reactions, nausea or vomiting after eating soy-based foods, and difficulty breathing or wheezing.

Lactose Intolerance

This condition occurs when the body cannot digest lactose (a sugar found in milk). Symptoms may include abdominal cramping, bloating, gas or diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which gluten causes damage to the small intestine. Symptoms usually include abdominal pain and bloating, weight loss, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue.

Cystic Fibrosis

This is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. Symptoms may include frequent respiratory infections, difficulty breathing or coughing up thick mucus, poor growth despite eating normally, foul-smelling stools, and greasy stools that are difficult to flush away.

Congenital Heart Defects

These defects occur when one or more parts of the heart develop abnormally before birth. Symptoms can vary but may include breathlessness, poor growth or weight loss, fatigue, and a bluish color of the skin due to lack of oxygen.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

This is a virus that affects the lungs and causes cold-like symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, fever, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing. It can be dangerous if not treated properly.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it difficult for babies to breathe normally. Symptoms may include coughing (especially at night), chest tightness or pain, and shortness of breath.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

These are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and can cause pain when urinating, fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, a UTI can cause serious kidney damage.

Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It can be life threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms may include fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion or disorientation, seizures, and sensitivity to light. Babies may be very sleepy or irritable and have poor appetite.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)

This is a group of problems that can occur in babies who were exposed to drugs while in the womb. Symptoms may include jitteriness, difficulty sucking, excessive crying, tremors, diarrhea or vomiting, slow weight gain, and respiratory problems. Treatment usually involves medication and supportive care.

Congenital Hypothyroidism

This is a condition caused by an underactive thyroid gland which results in lower levels of hormones that help regulate metabolism and growth. Symptoms may include low energy levels, constipation, dry skin or hair, slow mental development, and delayed growth. Treatment typically involves taking a daily dose of thyroid hormone.

Seizures

Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can cause involuntary jerking or twitching of the body and loss of consciousness. They can be caused by genetic disorders, infection, head trauma, or other medical conditions. Treatment typically involves medication and lifestyle changes.

Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic disorders occur when the body can't properly break down food into energy. Symptoms may include weight gain, fatigue, poor muscle tone, and irritability. Treatment typically involves dietary changes and medication to help regulate metabolism. For example, Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder in which the body can't break down the amino acid phenylalanine and requires a strict diet.

Baby Acne

Baby acne is a common skin condition that can cause redness and bumps on the baby's face, usually around the cheeks and forehead. It is caused by hormones that were passed from the mother to the baby during pregnancy. Treating baby acne usually involves gently washing the baby's face with warm water and a mild soap. If the acne persists, a doctor may recommend using an over-the-counter ointment or cream to help clear up the bumps.

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that can cause dry, scaly patches on the skin. It may be caused by allergies, stress, or other factors. Treatment typically includes avoiding triggers like certain soaps and fabrics, using moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated, and using medicated creams if necessary. For example, topical steroids may be prescribed by a doctor to help reduce inflammation.

Photo by Khoa Pham on Unsplash

There are many common medical conditions that can affect babies. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider if you notice any of the symptoms described above in order to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. By recognizing and treating these conditions early, you can help ensure your baby's health and wellbeing.