Should I Take My 18-Day-Old to the Doctor?
My newborn is currently 18 days old, weighs 7 pounds 11 ounces, and lives in the United States. I’m feeling anxious because there’s someone in the household who is ill, and I’ve noticed some redness on his face. Although I ordered a rectal thermometer, it won't be delivered until around 11 AM, and I’m contemplating finding one locally. However, I'm unsure where to look, and I opted for a smaller thermometer designed for infants, as I am worried about causing harm since I’m inexperienced in these matters. I have been grappling with postpartum anxiety. Just last week, I panicked when I thought he had hurt his umbilical cord and ended up calling for an ambulance, but the responders assured me everything was fine. During his last check-up with the pediatrician on Tuesday, they confirmed that all was well, including his heart sounds, breathing, temperature, and reflexes. Unfortunately, with someone in the house coughing heavily, my nerves have returned, and the thermometer hasn’t arrived yet. He has been a bit more irritable than usual, but that could just be due to an upset stomach. I felt embarrassed for having called an ambulance unnecessarily, and I'm struggling to discern whether my concerns are based on genuine issues or just fueled by anxiety. Should I wait for the thermometer before taking action, or is it better to seek medical help now? I'm hesitant to expose him to more germs at the emergency room if he isn’t actually sick. I didn’t expect to be facing health concerns so soon after bringing him home, especially with someone getting sick in our house during the first month. I heard from others that if a baby is sick, they would be inconsolable, but I’m unsure if that’s reliable advice.
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 9:50:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about your newborn's health, especially with someone in the house being sick. Given his age of 18 days, any concerns about symptoms like redness on his face and irritability should be taken seriously.
Explanation:
Newborns are particularly vulnerable in their first month of life. Changes in behavior, like increased irritability, can sometimes indicate discomfort or early signs of illness, especially if there are health concerns in the household. Redness on the face could also suggest a number of things—ranging from normal skin adjustments to a potential allergic reaction.
Next Steps:
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Monitor for Additional Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on the redness and any other signs of illness, such as fever (a rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher is considered a fever in infants), lethargy, difficulty feeding, or persistent crying.
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Seek Immediate Help:
- If you have any significant concerns before the thermometer arrives, do not hesitate to contact your pediatrician or a pediatric urgent care facility. It's better to err on the side of caution with a newborn, especially in light of illness exposure at home. Explain your observations and concerns—health providers are trained to handle these situations sensitively and can provide guidance.
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Consider Local Options for a Thermometer:
- If you prefer to check a temperature before seeking help, consider local pharmacies or grocery stores where thermometers are often available. Look for a digital thermometer designed for infants.
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Address Your Postpartum Anxiety:
- Recognize that it's normal to have heightened anxiety as a new parent. It may be helpful to discuss your feelings with someone supportive or a healthcare professional who understands postpartum anxiety. Connecting with support groups can also be beneficial.
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Reassure Yourself:
- It's normal to feel concerned about your care for your newborn. You're doing the right thing by being attentive to his needs. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.
Remember, early intervention can make a significant difference, and health professionals are there to support you and your baby. Be kind to yourself during this adjustment period; you’re doing a great job as a parent.
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