Did you know that the first few minutes of life of the newborn might be responsible for determining its future well-being? Medical intervention at that critical time is very important to a baby's survival and growth.

Having a new baby is a wonderful event, but also not without problems, particularly if the infant is premature or was born with medical complications. That is when the neonatologists step in. They are doctors who specialize in newborn medical care, especially babies who are premature, underweight, or have medical issues.

In this blog, we are going to explain the work of neonatologists, some of the most prevalent newborn health problems, and the need for neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) for preterm babies.

What is the Role of Neonatologists in Newborn Care?

Neonatologists are pediatric physicians who specialize in the management of high-risk and complicated medical disorders in newborn babies. Their chief duties are:

• Taking care of high-risk and premature babies with specialized attention.

• Observing and treating infants who have birth defects, infections, or congenital defects.

• Managing respiratory problems, feeding intolerance, and low birth weight.

• Operating neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and collaborating with other healthcare experts.

• Counseling parents with guidance on the care and growth of newborns.

General Causes of Newborn Health Issues

Newborn infants experience all types of health issues, and treatment at the early stage is crucial to maintaining their health. Some general causes for newborns to experience health problems are:

• Preterm Birth: Infants who are born premature at less than 37 weeks may have difficulty coping with poorly developed organs.

• Low Birth Weight: Newborns weighing less than 2.5 kg will have trouble maintaining the body temperature and feeding.

• Birth Asphyxia: Insufficient oxygen at birth can contribute to fatal complications.

• Fever: Neonates are prone to fever from infections such as pneumonia and sepsis.

• Congenital Anomalies: Children are born with birth defects, cleft palate, or heart defects.

• Neonatal Jaundice: Elevated bilirubin levels lead to yellow discoloration of the skin and need to be treated with phototherapy.
 

NICU Role in Premature Infants

Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) offer intensive treatment for the newborns with serious medical issues. Advantages of NICU treatment are:

•  Sophisticated Monitoring & Treatment: NICUs contain incubators, ventilators, and advanced medical equipment.

•  Care by Neonatologists: Highly trained staff members offer round-the-clock monitoring and treatment.

•  Supportive Nutrition: Premature babies typically require specialized feeding methods, including tube feeding.

•  Body Temperature Control: Incubators maintain the body temperature of the baby.

•  Infection Prevention: NICUs provide a sterile environment to prevent infections.
 

Common Neonatal Health Conditions

Neonatal conditions are of varying intensity, and timely medical intervention can make a big difference. Among the most prevalent neonatal health conditions are:

•  Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): A condition occurring in preterm babies due to immature lungs.

•  Neonatal Sepsis: A life-threatening bacterial infection requiring immediate treatment.

•  Hypoglycemia: Low blood glucose levels that can inhibit brain development.

•  Neonatal Jaundice: Elevated bilirubin levels requiring phototherapy.

•  Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA): Premature baby's heart problem.
 

How Neonatologists Assist Premature Babies ?

Neonatologists give focused care to give premature babies the best possible chance of a healthy life. They assist by:

•  Healing Surfactant Therapy to enhance lung function for premature babies.

•  Oxygen & Ventilation Support to help newborns with breathing difficulties.

•  Monitoring Growth & Nutrition to ensure they become heavier and grow normally.

•  Performing Developmental Screenings to detect and treat long-term issues.

•  Training Parents in Care Methods for feeding and holding the premature baby at home.
 

Conclusion

We hope our blog has given insight into the part played by neonatologists in newborn development and health. Early detection, expert treatment, and newer medical intervention can play a crucial difference in a newborn's life.

If your baby needs more complex neonatal care, talk to our specialist neonatologists at Supra Hospital. Our specialist team is committed to giving your baby the best possible start.