Wednesday, April 08, 2009

Health Tips for April 8

Health Tip: Selecting a Baby Stroller

A stroller is handy for parents who want to take baby for a walk, or want to have their hands free when running errands.

The Lucile Packard Children's Hospital offers these suggestions to help you choose a safe stroller for baby:

  • Make sure the base of the stroller is wide enough to keep it from tipping over.
  • Look for safety belts and straps to be secured tightly to the frame of the stroller.
  • Look for a safety belt fastener that's easy to use.
  • Make sure the stroller's wheels can be securely locked with brakes.
  • The basket should be placed low on the back of the stroller, just over the rear wheels.
  • Be sure the openings for baby's legs can be closed when the stroller is used as a carriage.

Health Tip: Calming Chickenpox

Chickenpox, and its trademark itchy, red spots, is a common disease in children.

The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for relieving the itch and keeping your child more comfortable:

  • Have your child soak in a warm oatmeal bath every few hours.
  • Apply cool, damp rags across your child's body.
  • Gently pat your child's body dry. Don't rub or scratch the itchy spots.
  • Dab the pox with calamine lotion, everywhere but on the face.
  • If your child's chickenpox are inside the mouth, feed the child soft, cold foods. Avoid anything acidic or salty.
  • Have your child take acetaminophen to alleviate pain.
  • Talk to your child's pediatrician about OTC medications that soothe itching, and creams that are safe to alleviate pain near the genitals.

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