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Showing posts with the label symptoms

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in Newborns: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that can affect newborns. GERD occurs when the muscle that separates the stomach and the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, does not close properly. This allows stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as spitting up, vomiting, poor weight gain, and breathing difficulties. Infants with GERD may show symptoms shortly after feeding or during sleep. They may arch their backs, cry or fuss during or after feeding, and refuse to eat. Some may experience breathing difficulties, such as wheezing, choking, or coughing, and have recurrent respiratory infections. In severe cases, GERD can cause damage to the esophagus, leading to bleeding, ulcers, and scar tissue formation. Causes: GERD in newborns is usually caused by an immature digestive system. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that opens to allow food to enter the stomach and clo...

What to Do When Your Child Swallows a Foreign Object: A Guide for Parents

 Introduction: As a parent, one of the most frightening experiences can be when your child swallows something they shouldn't. In this article, we will guide you through the steps you need to take in case your child swallows a foreign object, help you understand the different types of objects, and their danger levels. Step 1: Assess the situation The first step is to assess the situation and determine the severity of the problem. If your child is choking or having difficulty breathing, it is important to call 911 immediately. If they are able to breathe and swallow normally, you can proceed to the next steps. Step 2: Identify the object Try to determine what the object is that your child swallowed. This will help you understand the danger level and determine the next steps. Some common objects that children swallow include: Coins: Coins are among the most common objects that children swallow. They can cause blockages in the esophagus or the intestine and are considered a high dange...