Infants: Simple Solutions to Common Problems

A new parent doesn't need to run to the pediatrician every time the baby does something unusual. Here is a list of common problems and ailments with easy at home remedies that have been tried true by our mothers and grandmothers.

Cradle cap is a scaling rash on the baby's scalp. Baby oil can be applied to the crust and followed by a soft, fine toothed comb to remove the crust. When shampooing hair, rub scalp well with fingers or a washcloth. Use a baby brush regularly to stimulate hair follicles.

Diaper rash can usually be prevented by using disposable diapers or cotton diapers without rubber pants. Keep the skin clean and dry by changing diapers frequently, cleaning with mild wet wipes or rinsing skin with warm water and drying baby's bottom completely before putting on the fresh diaper. Frequent air drying is helpful in treating diaper rash. Caldesene powder or protective ointment such as A&D, Destitn can be used to prevent or relieve diaper rash.

A red face and straining are normal behaviors when infants pass stools. However going four or more days without a bowel movement is considered constipation. Natural methods of treating constipation are preferred with infants. One teaspoon dark Karo Syrup may be added to two to four ounces of formula two times a day. If your baby is eating solids, give strained foods with increased fiber such as cereals, apricots, prunes, peaches, pears, plums, beans, peas or spinach twice daily. Avoid strained carrots, squash, bananas and apples.

Spitting up is common during the early moths of a baby's life. Spitting up usually stops after your baby has been walking for three moths. To prevent spitting up, feed smaller amounts, wait at least two and a half hours between feedings, burp often, position baby upright after feedings but avoid infant seats as they put pressure on the abdomen.

Colic or crying spells is thought to be due to fatigue and lasts one to two hours usually during late afternoon or evening. Colic usually occurs between three weeks and three months of age. Fussy crying is harmless to your baby and it's okay to let baby cry himself to sleep. Cuddle or rock your baby, try placing baby in a swing or taking him for a car or stroller ride. Don't feed you baby every time he cries, try to sooth him with comfort. If vomiting or diarrhea also develops there may be a food allergy.

Hic cups are normal and occur after feeding in the first few months. They may be stopped with a drink of warm water.

Teething may happen between three months to one year of age and may cause mild discomfort and irritability. To relieve discomfort try a cold teething ring or washcloth, teething gel or acetaminophen such as Tylenol or Tempra.

To clear a stuffy nose, use a rubber suction bulb to gently suction mucous out of the nostrils. Nose drops may b e used if stuffy nose is blocked by dry mucous. Mix ¼ teaspoon table salt with eight ounces warm water and place three drops in each nostril. Let it absorb for at least one minute, then gently suction out loosened mucous with a rub suction bulb. Use a cool mist vaporizer at the baby's bedside.

For a cold, fluid intake should be increased to thin nasal mucous and also to help keep fever down. Encourage small amounts of favorite fluid at frequent intervals (one to two ounces every one to two hours). Plain water and fruit juices are recommended. If a cold lasts longer than two weeks or if mucous is yellow in color, contact your doctor.

Use Tylenol or Children's Motrin if a temperature is over 101'F. Do not give aspirin due to the high risk of Reye's syndrome. Do not give medications for a low grade fever; the body is fighting the infection. If the temperature is over 103, sponge your baby with warm water, reduce the amount of clothing to a diaper and sheet. Call your doctor if the fever doesn't not come down with medication.

Vomiting and diarrhea can be scary for both parent and baby. Stop solids for eight hours and give clear liquids, no milk, in small amounts. Start with one teaspoon to one tablespoon every ten minutes and increase gradually. Pedialyte or Kao oral rehydration solutions are recommended. Avoid fruit juices. You may begin a bland diet if there is not vomiting or diarrhea in eight hours. If your baby has started solid foods, try strained bananas, rice cereal mixed with water, applesauce or mashed potatoes. If he is breast or formula fed, give small amounts of oral rehydration solution between feedings. If symptoms don't improve within three days, call your doctor.