Comforting a Crying Baby

Comforting a Crying Baby by Famhealth

Comforting a Crying Baby by Famhealth

Babies have crying bouts throughout the first year as this is their only means of communicating for food and comfort.

When your baby cries, your first instinct will be to pick them up. While there have been conflicting views on this topic, let your instinct guide you and do not be afraid of spoiling the baby.

Your baby is new to the world and needs to know that you are reliable and always available. However, if you feel that your baby is crying a lot and that it is making you lose patience or get over tired, get in touch with other mothers, self help and support groups or voluntary organizations which can help you find ways to cope. Let’s explore reasons why the baby may cry and what solutions are available to you.

Why Your Baby May Be Crying

If the crying sounds pitiful or different from normal, the baby may be unwell or a blocked nose could be the cause of the problem. Other possible reasons may be:

  • Nappy rash or sore bottom
  • Colic
  • Being too hot or too cold
  • During the process of bathing or dressing etc
  • Your own bad mood may cause your baby to react with crying bouts.
  • Too much fussing may be upsetting the baby

Ways to Pacify a Crying Baby

  • If you fear your baby may be ill, do not hesitate to call a doctor as he may prescribe some remedies such nasal drops to help the baby breathe better and thus calm down
  • If the baby has a sore bottom, take the nappy off and clean the bottom thoroughly. You may leave off the nappy for the rest of the day.
  • If your baby is suffering from colic, try not to resort to medications at first and soothe the baby by rocking or take the baby out for a walk around the block.
  • Avoid over heating or over chilling the baby’s room. The ideal room temperature for the baby is what is comfortable for lightly clothed adults.
  • The baby may be hungry or thirsty so offer a feed or water
  • The baby may need attention through a cuddle or may have gas that is relieved by rocking rhythmically in your arms or in a rocking chair
  • Wrap the baby firmly in a shawl, tucking the ends to make a bundle. This process called a ‘swaddle’ makes a baby feel safe and secure.
  • Another way to calm the baby is by gently patting the tummy or back to calm them or to relieve gas in the tummy.
  • A pacifier or something to suck ,which is sterilized properly is another common remedy
  • Babies love bright colorful things so distracting them with a picture book, a mirror or a new toy may also work.

Crying is a normal process, which all babies show. However, ask your health care provider if your child is showing continuous bouts of crying in spite of all your efforts. Doctor can perform an examination which can depict some medical condition which you might not be able to figure it out.

To read more on Pregnancy, click on the link below,

Pregnancy

CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

It’s Symptoms And Management

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a medical disorder characterised by
extreme fatigue which cannot be explained by any medical condition.

 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms

What is the cause of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)?

The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, but many factors might play a role

  • It tends to affect women more, especially those in their 40s and 50s
  • Stress is often a common factor seen in almost all people suffering from CFS
  • Some people develop CFS after a viral ailment
  • Hormonal imbalances might play a role
  • Some people have a weak immune system and are more prone to CFS
  • CFS might also be due to a genetic abnormality

What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?

A person suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome can have symptoms like

  • Constant fatigue
  • A feeling of waking up unrefreshed after sleep
  • Irritability
  • Lack of concentration
  • Headaches
  • Joint and muscle pains
  • Sore throat
  • Swelling of the lymph nodes in the body
  • CFS tends to be cyclical and there are periods when the affected person might feel better and then relapse again

Diagnosis of Chronic fatigue syndrome

There are no lab tests to screen for CFS, and its symptoms are similar to many other illnesses. Many people with CFS don’t “look” sick, so doctors it is challenging for doctors to diagnose this disease.

In order to be diagnosed with CFS, your doctor will rule out other potential causes and review your medical history with you. They’ll make sure that you have at least four of the above symptoms. They’ll also ask about the duration and severity of your unexplained fatigue.

Ruling out other potential causes of your fatigue is a key part of the diagnosis process.

Some conditions whose symptoms resemble those of CFS include:

  • mononucleosis
  • Lyme disease
  • multiple sclerosis
  • lupus (SLE)
  • hypothyroidism
  • fibromyalgia
  • major depressive disorder

You may also experience symptoms of CFS if you’re severely obese or have depression or sleep disorders. The side effects of certain drugs, such as antihistamines and alcohol, can mimic CFS as well.

Because the symptoms of CFS resemble those of other conditions, it’s important not to self-diagnose and to talk to your doctor.

What can I do if I feel tired all the time?

  • In case you are troubled by constant fatigue and lethargy, it would be best to consult a doctor.
  • In addition to a careful history concerning your condition, the doctor will generally also advise tests to rule out other medical conditions that can cause symptoms similar to what you are suffering from.
  • There are no specific tests to diagnose CFS, it is a diagnosis of exclusion. So, it’s important to be sure that the symptoms are not due to any other disease, like hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, lupus, depression etc.

How is chronic fatigue syndrome managed?

Managing CFS involves lifestyle changes as well as support in the form of counselling. There is no specific medical treatment available to treat this condition. Some lifestyle changes can help in managing the condition

  • It’s best to avoid stimulants like caffeine, especially near bedtime, as these can cause insomnia and irritability.
  • Avoid sleeping during the day so that the sleep at night is undisturbed.
  • A regular exercise regime is very important. It is especially beneficial to walk jog outdoors as this helps in improving the mood too.
  • A well balanced diet, rich in anti-oxidants as well as protein, can help in maintaining the body’s immunity. Pulses, meat, eggs, fruits and nuts can all help in strengthening the body.
  • Meditation, yoga, tai chi etc. can help in relaxing the mind as well as the body.
  • Joining a support group or using the help of a therapist is beneficial for many people as it helps them cope better with the anxiety and depression that is seen often in this condition.
  •  In case required, an anti-depressant might be prescribed by your doctor.
  • The doctor might also recommend multivitamin supplements periodically to help boost your immunity.

We recommend medical guidance prior to starting any treatment regime.