Thursday, June 16, 2011

Health Tips for June 16

Health Tip: Protect Newborns From the Sun

A newborn's sensitive skin is particularly vulnerable to sunburn, so parents should be extra cautious.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these suggestions to prevent sunburn in babies less than six months:

  • Avoid sun exposure as much as possible.
  • Dress baby in a lightweight, long-sleeved top and long pants.
  • Put baby in a wide-brimmed hat to shield the face.
  • If you can't keep baby out of the sun, apply a small bit of sunscreen to the face and the backs of baby's hands.

Health Tip: Suggestions to Prevent Heat Rash

Heat rash occurs when an infant's pores become blocked, usually during hot, humid weather.

The University of Maryland Medical Center offers these suggestions to help prevent heat rash:

  • Dress baby in clothes that are lightweight and made of cotton.
  • Keep baby in an air-conditioned room during hot weather. Turn on a fan in baby's room when air conditioning isn't available.
  • Skip ointments, creams or powders on baby's skin.
  • Do your best to make sure that baby doesn't get too warm, and that the skin stays dry.

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