Fever/Infection – Dr. Vibin KV

01/Sep/2025

Massage for newborns can offer significant benefits, but it must be done with care, following expert guidelines to ensure safety and maximize positive outcomes for both infant and parent.

Key Benefits of Newborn Massage

Promotes bonding: Physical touch during massage enhances emotional attachment, eye contact, and communication between parent and baby.
Aids sleep and relaxation: Regular massage can help a baby feel calmer, lower stress hormones, and support restful sleep.
Supports development: Massage may promote social, emotional, and cognitive growth, help with motor coordination, and strengthen physiological systems like digestion and immunity.
Reduces discomfort: Gentle abdominal massage can relieve colic, gas, or constipation, though tummy massage should only be done after the umbilical cord stump has healed.

Safety Tips and Guidelines

Timing and environment: Choose a quiet, warm space and massage the baby when they are calm and alert—typically about 30 minutes after feeding.
Use safe oils: Select gentle, baby-safe oils, avoiding anything with fragrance or harsh chemicals.
Technique:
- Use gentle, firm (not rough) strokes, supporting joints like the wrist or ankle while massaging limbs.
- Massage the tummy only in a clockwise motion (and only after the umbilical cord area is fully healed).
- Avoid the spine directly—massage alongside it.
- If the baby becomes upset, uncomfortable, or falls asleep, stop the massage.
Precautions:
- Never apply strong pressure; always use the palm of the hand and soft finger pads.
- Don’t massage if the baby is unwell, feverish, or immediately after feeding.
- Never leave a baby unattended after applying oil—babies can slip and fall.
- Watch for allergic reactions; stop if any redness or irritation appears.
- After an oil massage, bathe the baby in lukewarm water and ensure the oil is washed off.

Simple Steps and Techniques

Prepare a warm room with a soft towel.
Use gentle strokes from the thigh to ankle and arm to wrist, always supporting the baby’s joints.
Use gentle circles for the tummy (if appropriate), and a soft touch for the cheeks, forehead, and back of the baby’s neck and shoulders.
Maintain eye contact and talk or sing to the baby throughout, to enhance bonding and relaxation.
Be patient and keep sessions brief at first, increasing time as the baby gets used to massage.

When to Avoid Massage

If the baby is sick, has a fever, or is recovering from illness.
Immediately after or close to a feed (wait at least 30 minutes).
On or near wounds, rashes, or unhealed umbilical cord area.

Summary Table: Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s	Don’ts
Use gentle, firm strokes	Apply strong pressure
Massage when baby is calm	Massage when baby is sick or post-feed
Use baby-safe oil	Use harsh or scented oils
Support joints during massage	Leave baby unattended or oily
Wash hands before start	Massage unhealed umbilical area

Giving a newborn a gentle massage provides nurturing physical contact and developmental support, but always follow professional guidelines for safety and comfort.

Dr. Vibin KV

19/Aug/2025

Screen Time in Children – What Parents Need to

Know

Why Screen Time Matters

• Affects brain development, especially in under-5s

• May disturb sleep and daily routine

• Can cause eye strain and vision issues

• Reduces outdoor play → risk of obesity

• Can affect mood, focus, and social skills

Recommended Screen Time by Age

Age Recommendation

< 18 months Avoid screens (except video calls)

18–24 months If introduced, only high-quality content, with parent

2–5 years Up to 1 hour/day, supervised

6+ years No strict limit – focus on balance (sleep, play, school)

Healthy Screen Habits

• Watch together and discuss content

• Choose educational, age-appropriate programs

• Keep tech-free zones (meals, bedrooms, before bed)

• Encourage outdoor play, reading, and hobbies

• Use parental controls when needed

• Model healthy screen use yourself

Warning Signs of Too Much Screen Time

• Child gets angry when screen is removed

• Prefers screens over play and social interaction

• School performance declines

• Poor sleep or constant tiredness

• Frequent headaches, eye strain, or poor posture

■ Key Takeaway

Screens are not harmful if used wisely and in moderation. Balance is the key – quality content +

parental involvement + healthy routine make screen time safe and educational

Dr. Vibin KV

06/Aug/2025

Excess ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) Intake in Children – What Parents Need to Be Cautious About

Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is lifesaving in cases of dehydration due to diarrhea or vomiting. However, excessive intake without proper need or guidance can lead to complications. Here’s what parents should know:

⚠️ Why Too Much ORS Can Be Harmful

Electrolyte Imbalance
- ORS contains salts like sodium and potassium. Too much can cause hypernatremia (high sodium levels), especially in infants and small children.
Overhydration (Water Overload)
- Giving large volumes of ORS unnecessarily may lead to fluid overload, which can burden the kidneys and, in rare cases, cause swelling (edema) or low sodium (hyponatremia) if diluted improperly.
Masking Ongoing Illness
- Relying solely on ORS without addressing underlying causes (e.g., infections) can delay proper medical treatment.

✅ When and How to Use ORS Safely

Only Use When Needed:
Primarily during diarrhea, vomiting, or signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, decreased urine, lethargy).
Follow Age-Appropriate Dosages:
- Infants (<1 year): ~50–100 ml after each loose stool
- Children (1–5 years): ~100–200 ml after each loose stool
- Older children: As much as they want, but spaced out gradually.
Do Not Force ORS:
Let the child sip slowly. Forcing large amounts can cause vomiting.
Do Not Use as a Routine Drink:
ORS is not a substitute for water, juice, or milk in a healthy child.
Avoid Diluting Commercial ORS:
Mixing it incorrectly (too much water or too little) changes its effectiveness and safety.

🚨 When to Seek Medical Help

If your child refuses to drink
Vomits everything, including ORS
Shows worsening signs of dehydration
Has blood in stools, high fever, or drowsiness
If you’re unsure about how much ORS to give

💡 Summary for Parents:

Use ORS wisely—only when there’s fluid loss
Stick to the recommended amount based on age
Do not overuse or make it a routine drink
Monitor for signs of overhydration or worsening condition

If in doubt, always consult your pediatrician.

Dr. Vibin KV

29/Jul/2025

Exclusive Breastfeeding in Newborns – What Parents Should Know

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) means giving your baby only breast milk for the first six months — no water, other liquids, or food. This is the ideal way to nourish a newborn, and the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF strongly recommend it.

✅ Key Benefits of Exclusive Breastfeeding

1. Best Nutrition for Baby

Breast milk has the perfect balance of nutrients — proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
It adapts to the baby’s growing needs.

2. Immunity Boost

Rich in antibodies, especially secretory IgA, that help fight infections.
Reduces risk of:
- Respiratory infections
- Diarrhea
- Ear infections
- Meningitis
- Allergies and asthma

3. Supports Healthy Growth & Development

Promotes better brain development due to essential fatty acids (like DHA).
Supports healthy weight gain and gut development.

4. Emotional Bonding

Skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding enhances bonding and emotional security.
Helps regulate baby’s heartbeat, breathing, and temperature.

5. Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases Later

Reduces risk of obesity, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers in later life.

6. Protects Mothers Too

Lowers mother’s risk of:
- Breast and ovarian cancers
- Postpartum depression
- Type 2 diabetes
Helps uterus contract after delivery and reduces postpartum bleeding.
Acts as a natural contraceptive (lactational amenorrhea method) under specific conditions.

❗ What Parents Must Avoid

No water, juice, or formula unless medically indicated.
Avoid giving honey or gripe water — can be dangerous.
Do not delay feeding — respond to baby’s early hunger cues (rooting, sucking hands).

🍼 Common Myths Debunked

“I don’t have enough milk” – Colostrum (the first milk) is enough in the first few days; frequent feeding helps increase supply.
“Baby cries, so milk isn’t enough” – Crying is not always due to hunger.
“Formula is just as good” – Formula lacks live immune factors found in breast milk.

📌 Final Tips for Parents

Initiate breastfeeding within 1 hour of birth.
Feed on demand, not on a strict schedule.
Ensure proper latch and position to avoid pain and ensure effective feeding.
Seek help from a lactation consultant if you face challenges.

Breastfeeding is a gift only you can give your baby. It lays the foundation for a healthy start to life — physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Dr. Vibin KV

24/Jul/2025

What is Typhoid Fever?

Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

⚠️ Common Symptoms in Children:

High, sustained fever (often 102–104°F / 39–40°C)
Weakness, tiredness
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Poor appetite
Headache
Diarrhea or constipation
Coated tongue
Rash (rose spots) – flat, rose-colored spots on chest/abdomen (less common in children)

🧪 When to Suspect Typhoid:

Seek medical attention if your child has:

A fever >3 days with no clear cause
Travel history to or living in a high-risk area
Known exposure to someone with typhoid

🩺 Diagnosis:

Blood tests: Widal test, TyphiDot, or blood culture (most accurate)
Stool/urine culture (sometimes used)

💊 Treatment:

Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor (complete the full course)
Hydration and nutrition are key
Avoid over-the-counter medicines unless advised

⚠️ Warning Signs (Seek urgent care):

Vomiting everything
Altered consciousness
Severe weakness
Abdominal distension
Bleeding from nose/gums
Blood in stool

🛡️ Prevention Tips:

Typhoid vaccine (available for children above 6 months–2 years depending on vaccine type)
Safe drinking water (boiled, bottled, or filtered)
Proper handwashing before eating and after using the toilet
Avoid:
- Street food
- Raw fruits/vegetables not washed properly
- Unpasteurized milk or dairy

🕒 How long does it last?

With treatment: Usually 7–14 days
Without treatment: Can last 3–4 weeks or lead to complications

✅ Summary for Parents:

Typhoid is preventable and treatable
Maintain good hygiene and sanitation
Complete the antibiotic course
Watch for complications
Get your child vaccinated if living in or visiting an endemic area

Dr. Vibin KV

19/Jul/2025

Dengue Danger Signs in Children: What Parents Need to Know

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness common in many tropical and subtropical regions. While most cases are mild, children can develop severe dengue, which may be life-threatening if not identified and treated early. Here’s what parents should watch for:

🧒 Early Symptoms of Dengue in Children

These occur in the first 2–5 days:

Sudden high fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)
Severe headache (especially behind the eyes)
Muscle and joint pain (“breakbone fever”)
Nausea, vomiting
Skin rash (may appear on day 3–5)
Weakness, irritability, or drowsiness in younger kids

🚨 Warning Signs of Severe Dengue (Usually after Day 3)

If your child had dengue fever and then fever starts to come down, stay alert — this is when complications can begin. Look out for these danger signs:

1. Severe abdominal pain or continuous vomiting

Can indicate internal bleeding or organ involvement.

2. Bleeding signs

Bleeding from gums or nose
Blood in vomit or stool (black, tarry stools)
Easy bruising or skin petechiae (tiny red/purple spots)

3. Excessive tiredness or restlessness

Lethargy or irritability can suggest poor blood circulation.

4. Cold, clammy skin or weak pulse

Sign of shock, which is a medical emergency.

5. Difficulty breathing

May indicate fluid accumulation in lungs or chest.

6. Sudden drop in urine output

Less urination or no wet diapers could suggest dehydration or kidney involvement.

✅ What Parents Should Do

Seek immediate medical care if any warning signs appear.
Monitor temperature, fluid intake, and urine output.
Give only paracetamol for fever (avoid ibuprofen or aspirin—they can worsen bleeding).
Ensure good hydration with ORS, coconut water, soups, or electrolyte drinks.

❌ What Parents Should Avoid

Do not delay hospital visit if warning signs appear.
Avoid over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or aspirin.
Don’t assume recovery just because fever drops—this is when danger can peak.

🦟 Prevention Tips

Use mosquito nets and repellents.
Eliminate stagnant water around the home.
Dress children in full-sleeved clothes.

If you’re unsure whether your child is improving or worsening, it’s safer to consult a doctor early. Dengue can worsen quickly, but with timely treatment, children usually recover well.

Dr. Vibin KV

05/Jul/2025

Umbilical Stump Care in Newborns: What Parents Need to Know

Caring for your baby’s umbilical stump is simple but important. Proper care prevents infection and promotes natural healing. Here’s what parents should know:

🍼 What Is the Umbilical Stump?

After birth, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut.
A small stump (about 1–2 inches) remains, which dries up and falls off usually within 1–3 weeks.

✅ Do’s for Umbilical Stump Care

Keep it clean and dry:
- Clean with plain water if dirty.
- Gently pat dry with a clean cloth or let it air-dry.
- No alcohol swabs unless advised by your doctor.
Fold diaper away from the stump:
- This prevents moisture and rubbing.
- Many newborn diapers have a special cut-out for the stump.
Dress your baby in loose clothes:
- Allows air circulation and prevents irritation.
Give sponge baths only until the stump falls off:
- Avoid submerging in water.
Let it fall off naturally:
- Do not pull or try to remove it even if it’s hanging.

❌ Don’ts for Umbilical Stump Care

Don’t apply powders, ointments, or antiseptics unless prescribed.
Don’t tug at the stump.
Don’t cover it with tight clothes or bandages.

⚠️ When to Worry – Call a Doctor If You Notice:

Redness or swelling around the base
Foul-smelling discharge or pus
Fever in your baby
Bleeding that doesn’t stop after gentle pressure
Stump hasn’t fallen off after 3–4 weeks

Dr. Vibin KV

20/Jun/2025

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in Children – What Parents Need to Know

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes, especially Type 1 diabetes in children. It occurs when the body doesn’t have enough insulin and begins to break down fat for energy, producing ketones that make the blood acidic.

🔍 What Causes DKA?

Missed or insufficient insulin doses
New onset of undiagnosed diabetes
Infection or illness (fever, vomiting, etc.)
Stress or trauma
Malfunctioning insulin pump

⚠️ Warning Signs and Symptoms

Parents should watch out for the following symptoms:

Excessive thirst and urination
Weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
Nausea or vomiting
Abdominal pain
Rapid breathing (deep, heavy breathing called Kussmaul respiration)
Fruity-smelling breath
Confusion or drowsiness
Dry mouth and skin
Sunken eyes

🏥 When to Seek Emergency Help

Call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately if your child:

Has vomiting or stomach pain
Shows drowsiness or confusion
Is breathing abnormally
Has very high blood sugar levels
Has moderate to high ketones in blood or urine

🧪 How DKA is Diagnosed

Doctors check:

Blood sugar levels (usually >250 mg/dL)
Ketones in urine or blood
Blood pH and bicarbonate levels (indicating acidosis)
Electrolytes (sodium, potassium)
Signs of dehydration

💉 Treatment of DKA

DKA is treated in a hospital, often in the pediatric ICU:

IV fluids to treat dehydration
Insulin to reduce blood glucose and ketones
Electrolyte replacement
Monitoring and treating underlying causes like infections

✅ Prevention Tips for Parents

Ensure your child takes insulin on time, without missing doses
Monitor blood glucose and ketone levels regularly, especially during illness
Follow a sick-day plan provided by the doctor
Educate your child about signs of high blood sugar and ketones
Always have test strips for ketones and a glucose meter
Have a medical ID for your child indicating diabetes

📞 Important to Remember

DKA is preventable with proper diabetes management
Early recognition and prompt action can save your child’s life
Regular follow-ups with a pediatric endocrinologist are essential

Dr. Vibin KV

16/Jun/2025

BCG Scar in Newborn: What Parents Need to Know

The BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) vaccine is given to protect against tuberculosis (TB) and is part of the routine immunization schedule in many countries. It is usually administered at birth or shortly after.

Here’s what parents should know about the BCG scar:

✅ What to Expect After BCG Vaccination

Local Reaction Timeline:
- First few days: Small red bump may appear.
- 2–4 weeks later: Bump turns into a blister or ulcer.
- 6–12 weeks: It may ooze slightly and form a scab.
- By 3–6 months: Heals to form a small, round scar.
Scar Size:
- The final scar is usually 5–10 mm in diameter.
- Not all babies develop a prominent scar — but the vaccine may still be effective.

❗ When to Worry

Excessive swelling or pus: A little discharge is normal, but large amounts of pus or a persistent wound (>6 weeks) should be evaluated.
Enlarged lymph nodes (especially under the arm) that are tender or growing.
Fever or signs of infection unrelated to normal healing.
No reaction at all after 3 months: Not usually a concern, but mention it during follow-up visits.

💡 Parent Tips

Don’t apply creams or ointments on the BCG site.
Avoid bandaging unless instructed by a doctor.
Let the area stay dry and clean.
Do not try to pop or drain the blister.

✅ Why the Scar is Good

A visible BCG scar often indicates the body has responded to the vaccine.
The presence or absence of a scar doesn’t guarantee immunity, but is usually a normal part of the process.

Dr. Vibin KV

13/Jun/2025

Ticks are small, spider-like parasites that attach to the skin and feed on blood. While most tick bites are harmless, some can transmit serious diseases. Here’s a guide to help parents understand what to do if their child gets a tick bite and how to prevent future bites.

1. Identifying a Tick Bite

Often painless at first.
May leave a small red bump, similar to a mosquito bite.
You may find the tick still attached to your child’s skin.

2. What to Do If You Find a Tick on Your Child

Remove the tick promptly:
- Use fine-tipped tweezers.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure—don’t twist or jerk.
- Avoid squeezing or crushing the tick’s body.
Clean the area:
- Wash the bite site with soap and water.
- Apply antiseptic.
Save the tick (optional):
- Place it in a sealed container or zip-lock bag.
- This can help identify the type if symptoms develop.

3. Monitor for Symptoms

Watch for signs of tick-borne illnesses in the days to weeks following a bite:

Red rash or bull’s-eye rash (especially in Lyme disease)
Fever or chills
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle or joint aches
Swollen lymph nodes

Seek medical care if any of these symptoms appear, especially after a tick bite.

4. When to See a Doctor

You can’t remove the entire tick.
A rash or flu-like symptoms develop.
You live in or have visited an area with high rates of tick-borne illnesses.
Your child appears very unwell after a bite.

5. Prevention Tips

Use tick repellents (with DEET or picaridin) on skin and permethrin on clothing.
Dress children in long sleeves and pants, tucking pants into socks.
Avoid brushy or wooded areas, especially in spring and summer.
Check your child (and pets) for ticks after outdoor play—especially the scalp, ears, armpits, groin, and behind the knees.
Shower within 2 hours of coming indoors.

6. Tick Removal Myths to Avoid

Don’t use petroleum jelly, nail polish, or a hot match to remove a tick—these methods can irritate the tick and increase disease risk.

If you’re in a region known for Lyme disease or other tick-related illnesses, it’s worth discussing with your pediatrician about local risks and whether prophylactic antibiotics are needed after a bite.

Older Posts

Key Benefits of Newborn Massage

Safety Tips and Guidelines

Simple Steps and Techniques

When to Avoid Massage

Summary Table: Do’s and Don’ts

⚠️ Why Too Much ORS Can Be Harmful

✅ When and How to Use ORS Safely

🚨 When to Seek Medical Help

💡 Summary for Parents:

✅ Key Benefits of Exclusive Breastfeeding

1. Best Nutrition for Baby

2. Immunity Boost

3. Supports Healthy Growth & Development

4. Emotional Bonding

5. Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases Later

6. Protects Mothers Too

❗ What Parents Must Avoid

🍼 Common Myths Debunked

📌 Final Tips for Parents

What is Typhoid Fever?

⚠️ Common Symptoms in Children:

🧪 When to Suspect Typhoid:

🩺 Diagnosis:

💊 Treatment:

⚠️ Warning Signs (Seek urgent care):

🛡️ Prevention Tips:

🕒 How long does it last?

✅ Summary for Parents:

🧒 Early Symptoms of Dengue in Children

🚨 Warning Signs of Severe Dengue (Usually after Day 3)

1. Severe abdominal pain or continuous vomiting

2. Bleeding signs

3. Excessive tiredness or restlessness

4. Cold, clammy skin or weak pulse

5. Difficulty breathing

6. Sudden drop in urine output

✅ What Parents Should Do

❌ What Parents Should Avoid

🦟 Prevention Tips

🍼 What Is the Umbilical Stump?

✅ Do’s for Umbilical Stump Care

❌ Don’ts for Umbilical Stump Care

⚠️ When to Worry – Call a Doctor If You Notice:

🔍 What Causes DKA?

⚠️ Warning Signs and Symptoms

🏥 When to Seek Emergency Help

🧪 How DKA is Diagnosed

💉 Treatment of DKA

✅ Prevention Tips for Parents

📞 Important to Remember

BCG Scar in Newborn: What Parents Need to Know

✅ What to Expect After BCG Vaccination

❗ When to Worry

💡 Parent Tips

✅ Why the Scar is Good

1. Identifying a Tick Bite

2. What to Do If You Find a Tick on Your Child

3. Monitor for Symptoms

4. When to See a Doctor

5. Prevention Tips

6. Tick Removal Myths to Avoid

Dr. Vibin KV

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