When a child is born in a family, this is certainly a great joy for parents. Only now care for the newborn baby should be very thorough. In particular, this applies to the umbilical zone. During an intrauterine life - through the umbilical cord pass the vessels that connect the crumb with the mother. After childbirth, when the child begins his "independent" life, the connection between him and his mother is interrupted - the umbilical cord is cut.
Causes of omphalitis
The most important reason for omphalitis is improper care of the wound. In particular, this refers to the primary processing of the navel immediately after childbirth and during the first day of the baby's life.
It is important to know that the skin is a very important element of human protection, and even more so of the baby from the external aggressive environment. When the skin is damaged - there is "access" for various microorganisms that cause trouble. That is - the umbilical wound is a kind of "entrance" for microbes, and if you do not take care of it properly, inflammation of the umbilical wound is possible. This is called omphalitis.
Symptoms of omphalitis
As we mentioned above, omphalitis is an inflammatory process of the umbilical wound. Therefore, the external signs of this infection are classic - redness, swelling in the navel, unpleasant odor of discharge.
Most often - in 80% of cases, suppuration of the wound is due to the ingestion of Staphylococcus aureus (Staphylococcus aureus). This microorganism very quickly penetrates deep into the wound, and in a very short time can reach the peritoneum and internal organs.
Treatment of omphalitis
First of all, we want to note that if you notice that your baby has the above signs that an infection has got into the umbilical wound, consult a doctor! This is necessary, since newborns do not have their own immunity, and any infection is dangerous for the child's life. It is for this reason, in most cases, treatment is performed in a hospital where experienced neonatologists will monitor the child.
Prevention of omphalitis
Avoid this unpleasant complication of carefully looking after the Achilles' heel of the baby. Here are the simple rules that need to be followed:
- Keep the skin around the navel dry. To do this, use diapers that have a special cut for the umbilical, and also choose soft cotton bodiks that will not cause irritation of the umbilical zone.
- Handle the wound 2 times a day (not more often!). To do this, you will need a solution of hydrogen peroxide in 3% concentration,
antiseptic (zelenka or spirit solution of chlorophyllite).
At a time convenient for you and your baby (usually after bathing), use a cotton swab and peroxide to treat the navel and the nearby zone. After that, use a new swab to clean and dry the wound. Do not do any sudden movements - soak until the place is dry. After that, treat the place with an antiseptic.
Normally, within two weeks in the navel, a crust is formed, which itself disappears. Always remember that the best treatment is prevention! Grow healthy!