Child Health

Baby showing signs of colic while a parent comforts them
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Colic or Something Serious

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Colic or Something Serious? Warning Signs Every Parent Should Know When a baby cries for a long time, parents may worry about what is wrong. Sometimes, the baby may have colic. However, crying can also mean that the baby is hungry, uncomfortable, unwell, or has another health problem. So, how can you know if your baby has colic or a more serious problem? Knowing the warning signs can help you comfort your baby or get medical help when needed. At Dr. Vivneet’s Vardaan Hospital, Patiala, parents can seek medical advice about newborn health and persistent crying, subject to clinical assessment. What Is Infant Colic? Infant colic is when a healthy baby cries a lot without a clear reason. The crying may be hard to stop, even after feeding, burping, or changing the baby’s nappy. Colic often starts in the first few weeks after birth. It usually gets better by the time the baby is three to four months old. Common signs of infant colic include: Long periods of crying, often in the late afternoon or evening. Clenched fists and tightly closed hands. Pulling the legs towards the tummy. A red or flushed face while crying. A tense tummy during crying episodes. Difficulty settling down despite feeding and comforting. However, these signs do not always mean your baby has colic. If your baby cries unusually, keeps crying for a long time, or seems unwell, consult a doctor. What Does Normal Colic Crying Look Like? Colic can cause loud and prolonged crying that is hard to stop. However, babies with colic usually feed well, stay alert when awake, and continue to gain weight. You may notice that your baby: Cries at similar times each day. Becomes unsettled without an obvious cause. Calms down for short periods and then starts crying again. Has no fever or other signs of illness. Appears comfortable between crying episodes. However, do not assume that every long period of crying is colic. Other health problems can cause similar signs. Colic or Something Serious? Warning Signs to Watch For Colic is usually harmless. However, some signs may point to a serious health problem. Watch your baby carefully for these warning signs. 1. Fever in a Young Baby A temperature of 38°C or higher in a baby under three months old needs urgent medical attention. Do not assume the fever is cause by colic. 2. Difficulty Breathing Get emergency medical help if your baby has trouble breathing, stops breathing for short periods, or has blue or grey lips or skin. 3. Repeated or Green Vomiting If your baby vomits forcefully or often, seek medical advice. Green vomit may be a sign of a serious problem in the intestines and needs emergency medical care. 4. Poor Feeding or Fewer Wet Nappies If your baby refuses milk, drinks much less than usual, or has fewer wet nappies, seek medical advice quickly. These signs may mean your baby is dehydrate or unwell. 5. Unusual or Inconsolable Crying If your baby’s cry suddenly changes, sounds weak or unusually high-pitched, or does not stop, it may be a sign of a health problem. 6. Blood in the Stool Blood in your baby’s poo is not a normal sign of colic. Contact a doctor promptly to find out what is causing it. 7. Unusual Sleepiness or Reduced Responsiveness Get urgent medical help if your baby is very sleepy, hard to wake up, feels unusually floppy, or does not respond as usual. Important: If your baby has difficulty breathing, blue or grey skin, seizures, or is unresponsive, seek emergency help immediately. What Causes Excessive Crying in Babies? There is no single cause of colic. However, other health problems can also make a baby cry a lot. Possible causes include: Hunger or feeding difficulties. Trapped wind or feeding-related discomfort. Reflux or frequent milk regurgitation. Cow’s milk protein allergy or another feeding-related problem. Constipation or other digestive issues. Infection or another illness. Injury or physical discomfort. A doctor may ask about your baby’s feeding, poo, sleep, crying habits, and weight gain. This helps them understand the cause and suggest the right treatment. How Can You Comfort a Baby With Colic? If your baby seems well and a doctor has checked them, a few simple steps may help comfort your baby. Try Gentle Soothing Hold your baby close, rock them gently, and speak softly. Quiet background sounds may also help calm some babies. Check Feeding and Burping Make sure your baby feeds comfortably and burp them during or after feeding if needed. If you bottle-feed your baby and they often swallow air, ask a healthcare professional to check the feeding method. Hold Your Baby Safely You can hold your baby upright after feeding while they are awake and you are watching them. However, always place your baby on their back on a firm, flat surface for sleep. Take Breaks When Needed A baby’s constant crying can be tiring and stressful. If you feel overwhelmed, place your baby safely in their cot and take a short break. You can also ask a trusted adult for help. Never shake a baby. Shaking can cause severe brain injury, even when it lasts only a few seconds. Also, do not give your baby herbal remedies, gripe water, or medicines, or change their formula without advice from a qualified healthcare professional. When Should You Consult a Paediatrician? Contact a paediatrician if your baby cries a lot, has trouble feeding, is not gaining weight well, or suddenly starts crying differently. Seek urgent medical help if your baby has a fever, vomits repeatedly, has blood in their poo, or shows signs of dehydration. Babies under three months need extra care because serious illnesses can develop quickly. A doctor may check your baby, review their feeding and growth, and suggest further tests if they suspect another health problem. Colic and Baby Care at Dr. Vivneet’s Vardaan Hospital, Patiala Constant crying can make parents feel worried and tired. However, finding the cause of the crying is the first

Baby not passing stool for 5–7 days with parents seeking pediatric advice at Vardaan Hospital
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Baby Has Not Passed Stool for 5–7 Days What Should Parents Do

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Baby Has Not Passed Stool for 5–7 Days: What Should Parents Do? When your baby has not passed stool for 5–7 days, you may naturally feel worried. However, babies can have different bowel habits. Some babies pass stool several times a day, while others may go a few days without passing stool. Therefore, parents should look at the baby’s age, feeding, stool type, behaviour, and other symptoms instead of only counting the number of days. Is It Normal for a Baby to Go 5–7 Days Without Pooping? Sometimes, especially in breastfed babies, it is normal to go a few days without passing stool. If your baby is feeding well, gaining weight, passing soft stools, and acting normally, it may not be constipation. However, if your baby has not passed stool for 5–7 days, you should look at the baby’s overall health. Stool patterns can change as babies grow and depending on how they are fed. Why Has My Baby Not Passed Stool for 5–7 Days? Several factors can affect how often a baby passes stool, including: Breastfeeding or formula feeding Changes in feeding Starting solid foods Low fluid intake Changes in the baby’s usual routine Constipation Some medicines Less commonly, an underlying medical condition Therefore, parents should avoid assuming that every long gap between stools means constipation. How Can Parents Tell If a Baby Is Constipated? Constipation is not only about how many days have passed without a bowel movement. A baby may be constipated if they have: Hard or dry stools Difficulty passing stool Pain or significant discomfort while passing stool Small, hard pellet-like stools A swollen or firm tummy Reduced appetite Increased irritability Occasional straining or turning red while passing a soft stool does not always mean constipation. What If My Baby Is Breastfed? Breastfed babies can have different bowel habits. Some babies pass stool often, while others may go a few days without passing stool. If your baby is feeding well, seems comfortable, has plenty of wet nappies, and passes soft stool, going a few days without stool does not always mean constipation. If your baby has not passed stool for 5–7 days and you are worried, speak with a pediatrician for advice based on your baby’s needs. What If My Baby Is Formula-Fed? Formula-fed babies may have different bowel habits from breastfed babies. Some formula-fed babies may become constipated, especially when their stool is hard or difficult to pass. Parents should always prepare formula as directed on the pack. Do not add extra powder or extra water unless a healthcare professional tells you to. What Should Parents Do If Their Baby Has Not Pooped for 5–7 Days? First, check how your baby is feeding and behaving. If your baby seems comfortable and well, speak with your pediatrician for advice, especially if this is not normal for your baby. Do not give your baby laxatives, suppositories, herbal remedies, or any other medicine without speaking to a healthcare professional first. If your baby has started solid foods, a healthcare professional can advise if any changes to their food or fluid intake may help. When Should You Seek Medical Help? Parents should speak with a healthcare professional if their baby has not passed stool for several days and has other symptoms. Contact a healthcare professional if your baby has: Repeated vomiting A swollen or very firm tummy Poor feeding or refusing feeds Fewer wet nappies Fever Blood in the stool Severe or ongoing crying Unusual sleepiness or weakness Poor weight gain Significant pain or discomfort When Is It an Emergency? Parents should speak with a healthcare professional if their baby has not passed stool for several days and has other symptoms. Newborn babies can become sick quickly. Therefore, if your baby looks seriously unwell, seek medical help without waiting. Should Parents Try Home Remedies? Parents should be careful with home remedies for babies. Do not give water, honey, laxatives, herbal preparations, or other remedies without appropriate medical advice, particularly to young babies. The right approach depends on the baby’s age, feeding, symptoms, and possible cause of the problem. What Will a Pediatrician Check? A pediatrician may ask about: The baby’s age Breastfeeding or formula feeding Feeding frequency Wet nappies Previous bowel movements Stool consistency Vomiting Tummy swelling Baby’s activity and behaviour Weight gain and growth The doctor may examine the baby and decide whether further assessment or treatment is needed. Baby Has Not Passed Stool for 5–7 Days: Key Takeaway A baby not passing stool for 5–7 days does not always mean constipation. Some babies naturally have longer gaps between bowel movements, particularly when they are otherwise comfortable and pass soft stools. However, parents should pay attention to changes in feeding, behaviour, tummy appearance, vomiting, stool consistency, and wet nappies. If you are concerned about your baby’s bowel movements or your baby develops warning signs, speak with a pediatrician rather than trying to treat the problem yourself. At Dr. Vivneet’s Vardaan Hospital, parents can seek pediatric and newborn care when they are concerned about feeding, bowel movements, constipation, or other changes in their baby’s health. Conclusion A baby not passing stool for 5–7 days can worry parents, but it does not always mean that the baby is constipated. Some babies naturally pass stool less often, especially when they are feeding well, staying comfortable, and passing soft stools. However, parents should watch for signs such as hard stools, vomiting, a swollen tummy, poor feeding, fewer wet nappies, fever, blood in the stool, or unusual sleepiness. These symptoms may need medical attention. If your baby has not passed stool for 5–7 days or you are unsure whether the bowel pattern is normal, speak with a pediatrician. Early medical advice can help identify the cause and ensure your baby receives the right care. At Dr. Vivneet’s Vardaan Hospital, parents can seek pediatric and newborn care for concerns related to bowel movements, constipation, feeding, and other newborn health problems. Follow up Instagram and Facebook for more information. FAQs Is it normal for

How long do children stay in the PICU
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How Long Do Children Stay in the PICU?

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How Long Do Children Stay in the PICU? When a child needs close care or intensive treatment, doctors may recommend a stay in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). One common question parents ask is, How long will my child stay in the PICU? The answer can be different for every child. Some children may need PICU care for a short time, while others may need to stay for several days or longer. At Dr. Vivneet’s Vardaan Hospital, the PICU team closely monitors children and provides specialised care when they need intensive medical support. What Is a PICU? A PICU is a special hospital unit for children who need close monitoring and intensive care. Children may need PICU care for serious infections, breathing problems, severe dehydration, injuries, seizures, or other conditions that need constant medical care. The PICU helps doctors and nurses closely watch a child’s condition and provide treatment as their needs change. How Long Does a Child Usually Stay in the PICU? There is no fixed number of days for a PICU stay. Some children may get better within 24 to 48 hours, while others may need care for several days or longer. The length of the PICU stay mainly depends on the child’s condition, response to treatment, and the level of care they need. For example, a child who improves quickly may leave the PICU sooner. However, a child who needs breathing support, constant monitoring, or treatment for a serious illness may need to stay longer. Therefore, doctors check the child regularly before deciding when PICU care is no longer need. What Factors Affect the Length of PICU Stay? Several factors can affect how long a child remains in the PICU. 1. The Child’s Medical Condition The child’s illness also affects how long they may need PICU care. Serious infections, breathing problems, neurological conditions, and other serious illnesses may require close monitoring and treatment. 2. Response to Treatment Doctors check how the child responds to medicines, fluids, oxygen, ventilation, and other treatments. If the child’s condition improves steadily, they may be ready to leave the PICU sooner. 3. Need for Breathing Support Some children may need oxygen or other breathing support. If a child needs more intensive breathing support, they may need to stay in the PICU until their breathing becomes more stable. 4. Need for Continuous Monitoring Some children need close monitoring of their heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs. The PICU team may continue close monitoring until the child is stable enough to move to another hospital unit. 5. Recovery After a Serious Illness or Procedure A child may need PICU care after a serious illness, injury, or procedure. The length of stay depends on how quickly the child recovers and whether they need more monitoring or treatment. When Can a Child Leave the PICU? Doctors usually consider moving a child out of the PICU when they no longer need intensive care. Depending on the situation, this may happen when: The child’s vital signs are stable. Breathing has improved. Intensive breathing support is no longer require. The child responds well to treatment. Continuous intensive monitoring is no longer necessary. The child’s condition can be safely manage in another hospital unit. The treating medical team makes this decision based on the child’s overall condition. Does Leaving the PICU Mean the Child Can Go Home? Not necessarily. Leaving the PICU usually means the child is stable enough to receive care in a regular paediatric ward or another suitable hospital unit. The child may still need medicines, monitoring, tests, nutrition support, or other care before going home. Therefore, PICU discharge and hospital discharge are not always the same thing. Why Do Doctors Reassess Children Every Day? A child’s condition can change quickly. Therefore, the PICU team regularly checks the child’s progress and adjusts the care as needed. Doctors may check the child’s breathing, blood flow, vital signs, test results, response to treatment, and overall recovery. Based on these findings, doctors can adjust the treatment and decide whether the child still needs intensive care. Can Parents Know the Exact Number of PICU Days in Advance? Doctors usually cannot tell exactly how long a child will need to stay in the PICU when they are first admitted. Instead, the medical team monitors the child’s condition and response to treatment over time. Parents can ask the treating doctor: What is the main reason for PICU admission? What treatment does my child currently need? Is my child’s condition improving? What signs would show that my child is ready to leave the PICU? What care may be need after PICU discharge? Clear communication with the medical team can help parents understand their child’s progress and care. When Should Parents Seek Urgent Medical Care? If a child has serious symptoms such as severe breathing problems, unusual sleepiness, unresponsiveness, seizures, blue or grey lips, severe dehydration, or a condition that is getting worse quickly, seek urgent medical care. If you are worry about your child’s condition, do not wait for the symptoms to become severe. PICU Care at Dr. Vivneet’s Vardaan Hospital At Dr. Vivneet’s Vardaan Hospital in Patiala, children who need intensive monitoring and treatment can receive care in a dedicated PICU. The PICU team closely monitors children and provides care based on their medical needs. The length of the PICU stay depends on the child’s condition and how well they respond to treatment. If your child has been advise to stay in the PICU, speak with the treating paediatric team to understand the treatment, monitoring, and recovery process. Conclusion How long a child stays in the PICU depends on why they need intensive care, how serious their condition is, and how well they respond to treatment. Some children get better quickly, while others may need close monitoring and treatment for several days or longer. Therefore, doctors assess each child individually instead of following a fixed number of PICU days. If your child needs intensive medical care, talk

Child with fever receiving care at a child hospital in Patiala
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Fever in Children: When Should Parents Seek Urgent Medical Care

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Fever in Children: When Should Parents Seek Urgent Medical Care? Fever is common in children and often happens when the body is fighting an infection. In most cases, fever gets better with rest, plenty of fluids, and proper care. However, some signs may mean that a child needs urgent medical care. Knowing when to seek help can help parents act quickly when their child becomes seriously ill. If you are looking for a child hospital in Patiala, Dr. Vivneet Vardaan Hospital offers specialised medical care for children and newborns. What Is Fever in Children? Fever means a child’s body temperature is higher than normal. It often happens when the body is fighting an infection, such as a cold, flu, throat infection, or ear infection. Fever is usually a sign of an illness, not a disease itself. Parents should also watch how their child feels and behaves and check for any other symptoms. For example, a child with fever may: Feel warmer than usual Become tired or less active Have chills or sweating Eat or drink less Become irritable Sleep more than usual Most childhood fevers are not serious. However, certain warning signs need prompt medical assessment. When Should Parents Seek Urgent Medical Care? Parents should seek urgent medical care if their child has a fever along with concerning symptoms. 1. Difficulty Breathing Seek urgent medical help if your child has: Fast or difficult breathing Severe breathlessness Grunting while breathing Blue or grey lips or skin Significant chest movement while breathing Breathing problems can sometimes indicate a serious infection or another condition that requires immediate assessment. 2. Your Child Is Very Sleepy or Difficult to Wake A child may sleep more than usual when they are unwell. However, if the child is hard to wake, very sleepy or confused, or not responding normally, it can be a warning sign. In this situation, seek urgent medical attention. 3. Severe or Persistent Vomiting Repeated vomiting can make it difficult for children to maintain adequate fluid intake. Seek medical advice if your child: Keeps vomiting Cannot keep fluids down Becomes unusually weak Shows signs of dehydration 4. Signs of Dehydration Fever can increase fluid loss, especially when combined with vomiting or diarrhoea. Possible signs of dehydration include: Very little urine Dry mouth or tongue No tears when crying Sunken eyes Unusual sleepiness Drinking much less than usual Offer appropriate fluids regularly and seek medical advice if you are concerned. 5. A Seizure or Fit Some young children may have a seizure during a fever. Many fever-related seizures are short, and children usually recover well. However, a first seizure, a seizure that lasts longer than expected, or unusual behaviour after the seizure needs urgent medical care. If a child is having a seizure, keep them safe, do not put anything in their mouth, and seek emergency medical help. 6. A Rash That Does Not Fade Under Pressure A fever with a rash can sometimes indicate a serious infection. If your child develops a rash that does not fade when you press it with a clear glass, seek urgent medical care. This is especially important if your child looks or feels very unwell. 7. Severe Headache or Stiff Neck Fever combined with a severe headache, stiff neck, unusual sensitivity to light, confusion, or marked sleepiness can require urgent assessment. Parents should not wait if their child appears seriously unwell. Fever in Babies: When Should You Be Concerned? Babies, especially very young infants, require particular attention when they develop a fever. A baby under 3 months old with a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher should receive urgent medical assessment. Parents should also seek urgent help if a young baby: Is difficult to wake Is feeding poorly Has breathing difficulties Has fewer wet nappies Develops a concerning rash Has unusual or persistent crying Appears seriously unwell Do not rely only on the temperature reading. A baby’s overall condition is also important. What Should Parents Do When Their Child Has a Fever? If your child is comfortable and has no warning signs, parents can usually focus on rest, fluids, and proper care. Keep Your Child Comfortable Allow your child to rest and avoid excessive clothing or blankets. Encourage Fluids Offer regular fluids to help prevent dehydration. Breastfed babies should continue breastfeeding. Monitor Your Child Pay attention to: Breathing Alertness Fluid intake Urination Skin colour New symptoms Whether the child’s condition is improving or getting worse Use Medicines Carefully Paracetamol or ibuprofen may help a child who is uncomfortable or in distress. Parents should follow the correct dose based on the child’s age and weight. If you are unsure, ask a healthcare professional for advice. Do not give aspirin to children unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. When Should You Visit a Child Hospital in Patiala? Parents should seek urgent medical care if their child has a fever with serious or worsening symptoms. A child hospital in Patiala can provide the right care when a child needs medical attention. Dr. Vivneet Vardaan Hospital offers specialised care for children with experienced medical professionals and modern healthcare facilities. If your child has severe trouble breathing, is not responding, has a seizure, or looks very unwell, seek emergency medical help immediately. Fever Does Not Always Mean a Serious Illness Fever is a natural response to many infections. Therefore, the number on the thermometer is not the only factor parents should consider. A child with a moderate fever who is awake, drinking fluids, and behaving normally may need less urgent care. However, a child with a lower fever who is very sleepy, having trouble breathing, or showing other warning signs may need urgent medical attention. Always consider your child’s overall condition and seek medical advice when you are concerned. Why Choose Dr. Vivneet Vardaan Hospital? Dr. Vivneet Vardaan Hospital provides specialised healthcare for children, newborns, and families in Patiala. The hospital supports children who need routine medical assessment as well as closer monitoring for more serious conditions. Parents can speak to

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