It doesn't matter if they are at day care or at home crying is a physiological process in the life of a baby. Babies communicate with other humans via this annoying yet necessary technique. Since they can't express their feelings in words crying is the only way for communication. Discomfort of any sort is guaranteed to bring on a bout of the tears. Normally babies cry in particular situations for example hunger, soiled diaper, too hot or cold, tight clothes, pain etc.
There are children who demand constant attention and, if not forthcoming, they cry. Crying without any cause is habitual in some babies. Crying, whether with or without cause is extremely distressing for parents or carers. Since the reasons for crying ranges from simple causes to more serious ones it should not be ignored thus exact cause must be identified and managed accordingly.
Here are some basic considerations when faced with a distressed child.
1, It is dangerous to shake the baby vigorously.
2, Tight, restrictive clothing can irritate delicate skin and should be loosened.
3, If the room is hot put the fan on and open the windows.
4, Check to see if the diaper is soiled and change.
5, Pat her back or stroke her head slowly and let her here your soothing sound.
6, The baby may be hungry to offer the breast or bottle.
7, If the climate is cold cover her with a soft blanket.
8, Pace the bedroom slowly whilst gently rocking the child.
9, Take a music making doll and let her listen.
10, A pacifier can be a great comfort.
11, If no response change her position.
12, A breath of fresh air might do you both good so head outside.
13, Put her on the cradle and rock gently.
14, Perhaps try changing to a different set of arms i.e. ask dad to carry her.
If even after all these steps the baby continues to cry check for the following; ( Probable cause is given after every sign)
1, Gently press on the child's tummy - if she writhes or resists you then she may have colic.
2, Pull her ear gently she may become worse or push your hands away:---Earache.
3, Check her temperature - if she has a fever she could have an infection.
4, Examine the skin from head to foot:--Eruptive disease,diaper rash,measles,vesicles,allergy etc.
5, Discharge from the nose - coryza.
6, Move the head gently to feel any neck stiffness:--Meningitis,head injury etc.
7, Listen to her chest for any labored breathing or rattling - An increase in mucus could indicate many illnesses e.g. bronchiolitis, asthamatic bronchitis, pneumonia etc.
8, Examine the anal orifice:--Anal erosion,rectal polyp,crawling of worms.
9, Check the genitalia - Any wounds or discharge.
10, In male baby see the testicles which may be swollen or tender:--Orchitis,torsion of testes.
11, Generally observe the body and it's movements for signs of vomiting, convulsions, labored breathing, rigors or cough.
If you see the above signs or any other abnormal signs consult your doctor for proper treatment.
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