Common Infant Conditions

As a parent, it’s normal to worry about your baby’s health. During the first year, babies go through many changes and sometimes health issues can come up. Most of the time, these problems are mild and go away on their own. But it’s important to know when to see a health care specialist.

At Banner Health, our pediatric experts are here to support you and your baby. We’ll explain common health concerns in infants and when to seek medical care. If you ever feel unsure, schedule an appointment with a Banner Health pediatric specialist.

Digestive and feeding issues

• Colic: Many babies experience colic in their first few months. This means they cry a lot, even when they’re otherwise healthy. Health care providers use the rule of threes to describe colic: 1) Crying for more than three hours a day; 2) At least three days a week; 3) For three or more weeks. Colic isn’t dangerous but it can be exhausting for parents. Learn about the causes, signs and ways to comfort a colicky baby.
• Reflux (spit up or gastroesophageal reflux): Reflux happens when stomach contents move back up into the esophagus, and sometime through the mouth and nose. The esophagus is a tube-like part of your digestive system that connects your throat and stomach. Spit up is common in babies because they drink only liquids and spend a lot of time lying down. However, if reflux is severe, worsening or becoming more forceful and long-lasting, it may be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Signs of GERD include an infant who refuses to eat, seems to be in pain during feeds, has bloody or green colored spit-up, has a swollen or hard belly or is coughing or wheezing.
• Constipation: While rare in breastfed babies, constipation can happen in formula-fed babies or those starting solid foods. Signs of constipation include infrequent or painful bowel movements or hard poops. Learn more about signs and potential treatments for constipation in babies and children. 

Skin conditions

• Diaper rash: Diaper rash happens when a baby’s skin stays wet for too long. It causes red, irritated skin in the diaper area. Changing diapers often, gently cleaning skin, letting the skin breathe and using a soothing cream can help. Learn more about the do’s and don’ts of diaper rashes.
• Baby acne: Some babies get small red bumps on their face, especially on the cheeks and nose, often when around 2 weeks old. This is called baby acne and it usually goes away on its own within a few weeks. 
• Milia: Tiny white bumps called milia or milk spots often appear on a baby’s nose, chin, cheeks or eyelids. These harmless spots don’t need treatment and will go away naturally. They are often present at birth. 
• Cradle cap: Also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, or cradle cap causes rough, scaly, crusty or oily patches on a baby’s scalp. It isn’t painful and usually clears up in a few months. Learn more about treating your baby’s cradle cap. 

Infections and immune concerns

• Jaundice: Jaundice causes a yellow tint to a baby’s skin and the whites of their eyes. It happens when bilirubin builds up in the blood. Jaundice is common in newborns and usually goes away within two weeks as their liver develops. Speak to your health care specialist for any concerns about jaundice in your newborn. 
• Ear infections: Ear infections happen when fluid builds up behind the eardrum, often after a cold. Ear infections are most common in children ages six to 24 months. Symptoms include ear pulling, fussiness and fever. Some ear infections go away on their own, while some others need antibiotics. Learn how to treat ear infections in children. 
• Thrush: Oral thrush is a yeast infection that causes white patches inside a baby’s mouth or on their tongue. It can make feeding uncomfortable and may spread to the breastfeeding parent. Learn more about oral thrush and how to prevent it. Treatments are available. 

Respiratory and developmental concerns

• RSV (respiratory syncytial virus): RSV is a common virus that can cause cold-like symptoms in babies. In some cases, it can lead to serious breathing problems, especially in newborns and premature babies. Watch for fast breathing, wheezing or trouble eating. See a health care provider if symptoms get worse. An RSV vaccine is recommended for all babies less than eight months born to mothers who did not receive a RSV vaccine in pregnancy.  Learn more about RSV.
• Delayed developmental milestones: Babies grow at their own pace but if they are not reaching milestones like rolling over, sitting up or babbling, talk to their provider. Early support can help promote a child’s development. Learn more about developmental milestones. 
• Flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly): This happens when a baby’s head develops a flat spot, often from lying in the same position too much. It usually improves with tummy time and changing positions. In most cases, a flattened area will not affect a child’s brain development. In some cases, a special helmet may be needed. Learn more about this condition. 

Growth and teething-related concerns

• Teething: Teething can make babies fussy, drool more and sometimes run a slight fever. It usually starts around 6 months. Gently rubbing the baby’s gums or giving them a cool teething ring can help. Learn safe and effective ways to soothe a teething baby.
• Growth spurts: Babies grow quickly in their first year. During growth spurts, they may eat more and sleep longer. These changes are normal and don’t last long. Learn more about growth spurts and what to expect.

When to seek medical care for your baby

Many newborn and infant health issues are mild and go away on their own. But sometimes, a health provider’s care is needed. Knowing when to call your baby’s provider and when to go to the ED can help keep your baby safe.

Call your baby’s health care provider if your baby:

• Has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C) and is younger than 3 months.
• Is eating less than usual or seem dehydrated (fewer wet diapers, dry mouth or no tears when crying).
• Has a cough, congestion or mild breathing problems that aren’t getting better.
• Has diarrhea, vomiting or signs of constipation.
• Has a rash, unusual swelling or signs of skin infection.
• Is fussier than usual and harder to soothe.
• Isn’t reaching developmental milestones, like making eye contact, rolling over or babbling.

Go to the ED if you baby:

• Has trouble breathing (fast breathing, grunting or pulling in ribs with each breath).
• Has blue or gray lips, face or fingernails.
• Is unresponsive or extremely difficult to wake.
• Has a seizure (shaking, staring or loss of consciousness).
• Has a high fever with a stiff neck, extreme fussiness or a purple rash.
• Suffers a serious injury, like a fall from a height, a deep cut or a burn.
• Is choking or have swallowed something dangerous.

Expert care for your little one

Your baby’s health is our top priority. Whether you have concerns about common newborn issues or need specialized care, our experts are here to help. Find a trusted Banner Health specialist today.