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Back-to-School Health Checklist For Your Child

As summer ends, ensure your child is mentally, physically, and emotionally ready for school. A healthy child can concentrate, succeed, and participate in school. Prepare your child for school with our comprehensive back-to-school health checklist. 1. Schedule a General Health Check-Up Plan a thorough health check-up with your child’s physician beforehand. This yearly checkup guarantees your child’s general health, helps track their development, and addresses any issues. The doctor will weigh and measure your kid during the session to evaluate development. Look over overall health and vital indicators. Talk about any medical issues like diet, sleep patterns, or allergies. This appointment is a great opportunity to check on diabetes, asthma, and other chronic disorders before classes start. 2. Ensure Vaccinations Are Up-to-Date Stopping infectious illnesses that may readily spread in a classroom depends on vaccinations. Verify that your child’s immunizations—including those mandated by their school—such as those covering measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), chickenpox, and polio—are current. Certain schools could also advise flu or meningitis immunizations. Depending on the age or health history of your kid, this is a great opportunity to discuss any extra vaccinations that could be crucial with your physician. 3. Check Vision and Hearing The learning and development of a youngster depend critically on good eyesight and hearing. Unidentified problems in any field might compromise their academic achievement. If your kid hasn’t had their vision or hearing checked lately, you may want to plan these before classes begin. Indices of possible issues include squinting, sitting too near screens, or trouble understanding spoken directions. Early addressing of these problems may greatly affect how your kid interacts with their education. 4. Address Sleep Routines Maintaining your child’s physical and mental health depends mostly on a good sleeping pattern. Children must get regular, enough sleep if they are to concentrate, grow, and control stress. Start progressively returning your child’s sleep schedule to school hours as the academic year gets underway. Based on their age, try for 9 to 11 hours of sleep per night. Reducing screen time before bed and developing a relaxing evening ritual can assist in enhancing sleep quality. 5. Promote Healthy Eating Habits Nutrition affects your child’s energy and attentiveness. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nutritious grains, and lean meats will boost their immune system and cognition. To ensure your child eats nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and after-school snacks, schedule meals before school. Including good fats like avocados and almonds and cutting sugary meals helps to balance energy levels all through the day. 6. Review Mental and Emotional Health For kids, the back-to-school change may cause stress and worry. Especially if your kid is beginning at a different school or entering a new grade, it is important to follow up with them on their attitude toward going back to school. Promote honest conversation and probe their opinions about peers, homework, or professors. Deep breathing exercises and mindfulness or stress-relieving strategies can also assist your youngster with any emotional difficulties. If your kid has been dealing with more severe mental health problems like behavioral changes, anxiety, or depression, think about speaking with a professional for direction. 7. Revisit Hygiene Practices Remind your youngster about appropriate hygienic practices because schools may serve as germs’ haven. Important behaviors comprise: Especially before meals and after bathroom use, regular hand washing with soap helps. When hand washing is not practical, use hand sanitizer. Covering the lips when coughing or sneezing helps stop the germs from spreading. Steer clear of touching the eyes, nose, mouth, and face particularly. If their school still has COVID-19 safety protocols in place, this is also a wonderful opportunity to educate your kid on how to properly wear and dispose of masks. 8. Prepare a First-Aid Kit for the School Accidents happen, hence it’s good to have basic first aid items in the backpack of your kid. Think about putting a little first-aid kit with hand sanitizer, antiseptic wipes, and band-aids among other things. Minor scrapes or cuts that arise throughout the school day might find use here. 9. Ensure Adequate Physical Activity A child’s development depends on physical exercise; it helps them to increase attention, lower tension, and strengthen muscles and bones. Get your youngster involved in extracurricular activities, school sports, or at least consistent outside play. Children should get at least 60 minutes daily of moderate to strenuous physical exercise like swimming, jogging, and bike riding. 10. Discuss Backpack Safety Children who carry big backpacks may develop back and shoulder problems. Make sure your youngster only packs what they need for the day and that their bag is lightweight. Search for a backpack with cushioned straps; then, urge your youngster to utilize both straps to equally distribute the weight. Teach your youngster the effective ways to arrange their school supplies to prevent overpacking and pressure on their body. Final Thoughts Getting ready for the next school year transcends beyond buying clothes and materials. Giving your child’s physical, mental, and emotional health priority guarantees they are ready for success both inside and outside of the classroom. Following this back-to-school health checklist can help your kid have a good, active school year ahead. For expert pediatric advice and care, be sure to visit Dr. Olfa, where professional advice is available to support your child’s health as they return to school.

What foods should I eat while breastfeeding?

Nursing demands a lot of energy and nutrition even if it’s a beautiful, natural process. Both your general health and the quality of your breast milk depend much on your diet. The best foods to eat while nursing will be covered in this post with recommendations based on respected expertise in mother nutrition. Why Diet Matters During Breastfeeding Your body is working hard to create milk with vital nutrients for the development and growth of your child when you are nursing. The quality of your milk directly corresponds to your nutrition, hence a varied and balanced diet is quite vital. Along with your requirement for particular vitamins and minerals, your calorie needs will also rise. Ensuring the mother and child stay healthy entirely depends on maintaining a nutritious diet during nursing. She counsels that a good diet not only boosts milk output but also promotes the mother’s overall well-being, therefore enabling her to heal from childbirth and preserve energy levels. Key Nutrients to Focus On Protein Your baby’s growth as well as your own depends on protein. It is a basic building block of breast milk, boosts the immune system, and helps develop and heal tissues. Eat lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts among other sources. A handful of almonds or a dish of chicken breast, for instance, might give a notable protein boost. Calcium Bone health depends on calcium, which also is quite vital for muscle action. Your body needs more calcium while nursing to guarantee the health of your baby’s growing bones as well as yours. Apart from fortified plant-based milks, and leafy green vegetables like kale, and almonds, good sources of calcium are dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt. Dr. Olfa emphasizes the requirement of enough calcium intake to stop the loss of bone density in newlywed women. Iron Red blood cells cannot be made without iron, which also helps to avoid anemia. During nursing, your iron needs rise; so, you should include foods high in iron in your diet. Great sources are red meat, chicken, fish, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals. Iron absorption can be improved by combining meals high in vitamin C— oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers—with foods high in iron. Omega-3 Polymers Omega-3 fatty acids are what determine your baby’s ocular and brain growth. They also help with heart health. Among other sources of omega-3s, eat walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and fatty fish (such as salmon and sardine). Dr. Olfa claims that regular intake of these healthy fats can enhance the condition of moms and children equally. Vitamin D Bone health and absorption of calcium depend on vitamin D. Getting enough vitamin D from food by itself can be difficult; so, exposure to sunlight and supplements could be required. Foods high in vitamin D include egg yolks, dairy goods fortified with vitamin D, and fatty fish. If a nursing woman has little sun exposure, Dr. Olfa generally counsels her to think about vitamin D pills. Hydration Breastfeeding calls for constant hydration. Your body requires more fluids to generate milk, hence sip lots of water all day. Additionally helping you to increase your fluid intake are herbal teas and diluted fruit juices. Dr. Olfa emphasizes the need for hydration to preserve milk production and promote general health. Sample Meal Plan Here’s a sample meal plan to give you an idea of how to incorporate these nutrients into your diet: Breakfast Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries, chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey. One glass of enhanced vitamin C-fortified orange juice.  Mid-Morning Snack A handful of almonds and a piece of fruit, such as an apple or banana. Lunch Quinoa on the side; grilled chicken breast salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. One glass of water or herbal tea. Afternoon Snack Carrot sticks with hummus or a smoothie made with spinach, banana, and flaxseeds. Dinner Baked salmon with a side of steamed broccoli and sweet potatoes. A glass of fortified plant-based milk. Evening Snack A small bowl of cottage cheese with fresh fruit. Foods to Limit or Avoid Although you should concentrate on foods high in nutrients, some foods and drinks you might choose to cut back on or avoid: Caffeine  Too much of this can disrupt your baby’s sleep habits. Try to keep your daily intake to around two cups of coffee—about 300 mg. Alcohol Alcohol should be avoided completely or limited since it can transfer into breast milk. If you decide to drink, wait two hours minimum between each drink and nursing. High Mercury Aquarium Fish  Mercury levels in some fish—including king mackerel, swordfish, and shark—may be dangerous for your unborn child. Choose lower-mercury selections such as sardines and salmon. Processed Foods  Highly processed foods can be heavy in sodium, bad fats, and sugars. Try to cut these as you concentrate on complete, nutrient-dense foods. Conclusion Although Dr. Olfa stresses the need to pay attention to what you eat, nursing also requires balance and bodily awareness. She exhorts first-time mothers to put their health first and, when necessary, seek help. Together with enough rest and water, a well-balanced diet helps make sure you and your child flourish during this unique period. Your nursing path will be supported and the finest nutrients for your baby will be given by choosing conscious foods and keeping aware of your nutritional requirements.

How do you deal with a naughty child?

Dealing with a naughty child might be among the toughest parts of parenthood. Many parents deal with this regular problem, hence it is imperative to identify practical ways to control disruptive conduct. Using professional advice from eminent child pediatrician Dr. Olfa, who is well-known for her creative methods of behavior control, we will discuss several strategies for dealing with a naughty child in this article. Comprehending Naughty Behavior One should first know what exactly qualifies as “naughty” behavior before attempting to control a bad youngster. Typical naughty behavior consists of disobedience, tantrums, and resistance. A child’s demand for attention, a lack of clear boundaries, or even underlying emotional or developmental problems can all influence these actions. Parents should first watch and consider their child’s conduct to find triggers and trends, she advises This introspective method helps one customize a more successful strategy and offers insightful analysis of why a child could be behaving out. Establishing Explicit Limits and Expectations Establishing clear, consistent limits is one of the best strategies for handling a disruptive youngster. Children flourish on schedule and knowing their expected behavior. Dr. Olfa emphasizes that children understand the boundaries of appropriate behavior using well-defined rules and consequences. Clearly defining standards in basic, straightforward language helps one to create reasonable limits. Rather than nebulous directions like “Be good,” state exactly what behavior is desired, such as “No yelling” or “No hitting.” Enforcing these guidelines depends mostly on consistency; breaking a rule results in administering the penalty every time, so promoting the behavior. Moreover, in motivating desirable actions, positive reinforcement can be more successful than punishment. Recognizing and praising good behavior encourages kids to abide by the guidelines and make wise decisions. Good Correspondence Managing a troublesome child depends much on good communication. Dr. Olfa emphasizes to parents and children the need for honest and open communication. By recognizing a child’s emotions and practicing active listening, one can help resolve fundamental problems influencing their behavior. Active listening is giving your child’s words great attention without intervening. This shows regard and facilitates understanding of their viewpoint. Furthermore important is educating your child to communicate their emotions orally instead of acting out; this will help them to express them constructively. Furthermore crucial is modeling acceptable behavior. Children generally copy the actions of adults, hence showing them peaceful and polite conversation helps them to follow. Executing Time-Outs and Consequences When used correctly, time-outs and punishments are powerful instruments for controlling disruptive behavior. Dr. Olfa advises including these strategies in a more general behavioral control program. Time-outs and penalties should be equitable, age-appropriate, and applied in concert with positive reinforcement. Time-outs are taking the youngster out of a situation so they may cool off and consider their actions. A time-off should last appropriate for the child’s age, say one minute every year of age. Another approach is logical consequences, in which case the conduct directly influences the outcomes. For example, a youngster can lose their right to play with their toys if they refuse to tidy them the next day. Physical punishment should not be used, suggests Dr. Olfa, since it can cause anger and terror. Rather, concentrate on nonviolent approaches of punishment that enable teachable conduct without generating damage. Promoting Positive Actions Managing a mischievous child depends on good behavior. Dr. Olfa advises emphasizing with support and encouragement a child’s confidence and self-esteem development. One could find it beneficial to establish an incentive system. With awards like stickers or extra playtime, a reward chart might, for instance, track and inspire excellent behavior. Another great tactic is offering options. Giving young people the ability to choose between two approved choices helps them to feel in control and lessens opposition. Using quality time and meaningful interactions, developing a strong, good relationship with your child promotes security and collaboration.   Conclusion Dealing with a naughty child calls for a proactive approach, consistency, and patience. Understanding the underlying reasons for behavior, establishing reasonable limits, improving communication, and supporting good behavior will help you to provide your child with more harmonic and supportive surroundings. The thoughts of Dr. Olfa provide great direction on overcoming obstacles and building a good rapport with your child. Recall that parenting is a road requiring adaptation and flexibility on your path. Your child will grow into a well-mannered, emotionally healthy person with the correct techniques and help.

How can you protect your child from whooping cough?

Health is always a top priority especially when it comes to your baby’s health. Concerning health conditions amongst infants can lead to prolonged health deterioration. Whooping cough is one such concerning condition that new parents must know about.  Whooping cough is a contagious issue that can damage more than just the respiratory system. However, you can overcome this condition rather quickly. You need to know about whooping cough and how you will implement your knowledge to overcome this condition.     What is Whooping Cough? It is also termed as Pertussis which indicates that bacterial infection is the main cause that directly impacts your baby’s respiratory system. Whooping cough is a contamination that is spread through air, for instance, if an affected person coughs or sneezes closer to you, the contaminated particles will impact you as well. In this case, babies are born with low immune systems hence their bodies are more prone to catch this disease.   Signs and Symptoms Initially, you would not be able to differentiate between a whooping cough and a normal cold, as both appear to be the same. However, from a pediatrician’s point of view, the following symptoms can help you identify it quickly; As mentioned initially, it will look similar to the common cold, so your baby will have a runny nose and mild cough. With time, the mild cough will turn into a coughing fit and will make it harder on your baby. And when the baby starts making a ‘whoop’ noise after every coughing fit that is when you identify it as something different than a weather-affected cold. Excess coughing can eventually lead to forceful vomiting and lethargy afterward.    What Can You Do to Protect Your Child? There are several things to consider from the environment to the food, and the hygienic conditions. Here are some important factors that you should consider to keep your child safe. Vaccination: Vaccination not only protects your child from oncoming health concerns but also boosts the immune system to fight against the invading bacterial infection. Throughout the initial months after a baby is born, the medical authorities give follow-up shots of vaccinations such as DTaP that prevent whooping cough and other health concerns. With time the impact of a vaccination wears off and it is mostly suggested to get a booster shot to hype the immune system. However, a booster shot must be taken under the orders of your local pediatrician.    Create a safe environment: As mentioned earlier, a baby’s immune system is not strong enough therefore it is best to maintain a safe environment for them. You can make sure to check who comes in close contact with your baby such as your family members or anyone you come across. Make sure they don’t have any transferrable health concerns specifically coughing or flu.    Take precautionary measures: The first thing as a parent you can do is to recognize the early signs of whooping cough and contact your pediatrician. Immediate treatment will help recover your baby by reducing the severity of the cough.  Every parent is to maintain hygienic conditions. Practice washing your hands frequently before handling your child.  Do not expose yourself or your baby to sick people who appear to have a cold or flu. Clean the surfaces and anything that comes in close contact with your baby. Conclusion Stay proactive and keep yourself updated with the latest information about health recommendations. Make sure you follow a routine checkup as set by your pediatrician. Eat healthy so you can breastfeed your baby and help boost their immune system against concerning health conditions.

Spitting vs. Vomiting: What’s the Difference?

New parents may want to check on their newborn out of happiness or worry. Worrying about your baby’s health and behavior is a completely normal reaction on your part. One common concern Dr. Olfa has found among new parents is their confusion regarding understanding the difference between vomiting and spitting up. Both are easy to deal with if you take preventive measures, otherwise you will need to consult your pediatrician. So, let’s talk about what you need to know regarding the difference between vomiting and spitting up in infants.    What You Need to Know About Spitting Up Spitting is the most natural and recurrent phenomenon in infants during the initial months of their life. This usually happens after they eat their food and the reaction is considered completely normal.   What Causes Spitting Up? Your baby might spit up because they; Have a small and developing digestive system which takes time to consume enough food. It makes the milk flow back out of the mouth frequently.  Intake more milk than they can handle, which is when some of it flows back in the form of spit. Are fed consistently during short intervals, making it difficult for their little stomach to digest.    How Should You Manage It? Since the phenomenon of regurgitation is completely natural in infants, look for signs that the baby is about to spit up to possibly deal with it. The baby will have a small portion of spit collected at the corner of their mouth. It usually occurs right after feeding. Usually, when infants relax their fists, it means they are full right after feeding. There are chances the baby might spit up afterward. Spitting up is a common occurrence and parents need not worry about it. Since the signs before spitting up are shared from a pediatrician’s point of view, it is best to learn how to avoid spitting. Here are a few tips to manage it: Plan meal time: Try to feed your baby at regular intervals and make sure he digests his food. Burp: Burping helps the infant release trapped air right after feeding. Upright position: ensure to hold your baby for a little while after feeding. Although spitting up is hardly a matter of concern, if your baby does not gain weight or refuses to take regular feeding, It’s highly recommended you visit your baby’s pediatrician.   What You Need to Know About Vomiting Forceful release of content from the stomach is what is termed as vomiting. Vomiting in infants is a matter that requires immediate attention.   What Causes Vomiting? Is vomiting a matter of concern or is it normal? Well, it depends on your baby’s health condition. Certain factors influence vomiting like; Excess feeding can burden your baby’s stomach and cause vomiting. Changing weather conditions can instigate bacterial and viral infections, giving rise to innate issues like vomiting. One of the causes includes any food allergy, such as lactose intolerance.    How Should You Manage It? As a parent to an infant, it can be stressful to witness your baby’s first ill health, however, with Dr. Olfa’s tips and suggestions you can go through this phase of life easily. Initially, you need to characterize the signs of vomiting such as; Weariness or fever Discomfort due to reasons like stomachache, indigestion, etc. Dehydrated body A pediatrician can share a fair deal of precautionary measures that you can take to overcome your baby’s vomiting. Some of the points you should keep in mind include; Don’t feed excessively and quickly. Make sure your baby is taking enough fluid to stay hydrated. Change your diet if you are breast-feeding. Vomiting occurs due to very minute reasons as a baby’s body is prone to changing conditions. However, excess vomiting can lead to serious health concerns therefore consult your local pediatrician immediately. 

Choosing the Best Pediatrician in Dubai for Your Newborn Baby

As a mother, you wish the very best for your baby. Therefore, you want the best pediatrician doctor to see your baby when they get ill. However, choosing the best pediatrician in Dubai may take work.  This article will provide tips on choosing the right pediatrician in Dubai for your newborn. Why is the right pediatrician best for your baby’s health? Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in children. They offer the best help for your baby from the moment they are born through their developmental milestones and during their early years. Having a reliable pediatrician will greatly help you and your baby. When should you choose the right pediatrician? While there is no strict time on when to choose a pediatrician for your newborn, it is best to consider choosing the best pediatrician for your baby during the third trimester of your pregnancy. This is because you will have ample time to register your baby at a pediatric clinic. When your baby finally comes, you will easily take it for the first pediatric visit to be examined, schedule immunization, recognize neonatal health issues, and follow up.  In addition, choosing the best pediatrician in Dubai in advance will help you acquire key information related to the nutrition of your baby, fitness, and health to ensure they have the best chances of survival, especially during the first two years of life. Choosing the Best Pediatrician in Dubai for Your Newborn Baby There are many ways you can choose the best pediatrician for your baby. For example, you ask your relatives, co-workers, or friends to recommend the right pediatrician.  Also, you can conduct an internet search on pediatricians near you but be sure to read reviews and see what others say about these pediatricians. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right pediatrician doctor for your newborn baby. Location. Newborns are very demanding; therefore, you should consider choosing pediatricians near your home. This will save your family time and travel expenses. Experience of the pediatrician. Review the pediatrician’s credentials and experience. Please pay attention to their demeanor and mannerisms and make sure you choose a pediatrician you feel comfortable with and the clinic environment. Language and Culture. It would help to choose a pediatrician who understands your language and culture since they will pay attention to your sensitive cultural practice. If you need the right pediatrician for your newborn, Dr. Olfa, is among the best pediatrician in Dubai, UAE. She will attend to your baby’s health needs. She has an MD in Pediatrics and a subspecialty in Neonatology. She has proven competency in pediatric patient care, medical knowledge, and practice-based learning and improvement. She is fluent in French, Arabic, and English. Make an appointment today.  

What are some common pediatric problems?

Babies are little blessings, making your life complete and happy. As a pediatric doctor, I’m going to share some important facts to help you on this parenting journey. Additionally, you may experience pediatric problems that may seem normal but may be uncomfortable for your baby. So, let’s walk along with me to explore some of the core pediatric issues and what you can do about them. Feeding Most parents will face this issue in the initial days after their baby is born. This is a common concern where parents struggle in dealing with a fussy baby who refuses to be breastfed or bottle-fed. This happens either as a natural reflex to something foreign or due to stomach ache.  If your little one is seemingly facing trouble taking nutrition or showing indications of health problems, it is better to seek help from a pediatrician doctor. They are there to support you and give you advice on how to tackle the feeding problem and how to hold your baby when he or she is uncomfortable. Pediatric doctors also offer alternatives for breastfeeding such as they will give out specialized formulas and provide strategies to deal with your baby’s issues.  Rashes Diapers have no alternative and you can’t take a baby anywhere without a diaper. It is really common for infants to have diaper rashes because your baby’s skin is not used to something like this and diapers irritate skin so badly. The prolonged contact of wet diapers or constant friction between diaper and skin is the main reason for such rashes. What you can do to overcome such a pediatric problem is to make sure your baby is clean and the diaper is not wet. Change your infant’s diapers regularly and use toxic-free wipes or lukewarm water to clean them off. Apply an ointment or barrier cream as recommended by your pediatrician. Overcoming Health Problems Changing weather conditions and environmental effects are the main reasons behind your newborn’s health problems. It is common for babies to be susceptible to illnesses such as overcoming colds, flu, or stomach aches.  These conditions often resolve on their own once you take proper care of your young ones. In case your child still has not recovered from one of these conditions, it is best to provide proper medication and make sure they are well-rested and hydrated. If you feel your baby is not getting better, consult your pediatric doctor as soon as possible. Teething One of the challenging pediatric problems is the teething phase. Your baby will face difficulty in sleeping and will be restless and uncomfortable until the teething phase is over. It is better to give your baby a chilled teething ring, gently move your finger over their gums, and massage it. This will soothe your baby’s discomfort and help them overcome it easily. Irregular Sleep Cycle Babies are not used to the routine, noise, and environmental changes. This may hinder their normal sleep cycle and will make them cranky. It is best recommended to place your baby on their back and use soothing music to help with their sleep schedule.  Be sure to check your baby’s diapers regularly, as the wetness may disturb their sleep cycle. It is best to use high-quality products to avoid skin reactions and help prolong the baby’s resting time.    Conclusion Parenting is such a wonderful phase where you get to experience everything new. Make sure to seek your pediatric doctor for consulting, seeking support, and asking for guidance. Keeping up to date with common pediatric issues can help you better understand your baby’s condition. You can also help your infant overcome health problems with great ease. Contact Dr Olfa today for more information. 

What are the stages of a baby crying?

Parenthood is an interesting journey, from the excitement to the challenges of raising a baby. A baby enters this world with a loud cry, and that first cry brings such a joyous moment to your life. With time, your baby’s crying tone changes depending on the situation.  As a pediatrician, I have made it easy for you to understand your infant’s primary means of communication.   Subtle Crying Initially, after entering this world, a baby only knows crying as the better means of communication to fend for themselves. Their tiny crying voices give way to the prospective discomfort or hunger pangs due to an empty stomach. You can find subtle cues such as restlessness, fussiness, or sucking on random things.    Whimpers In case, you miss the initial stages of fussiness or restlessness, your baby has other means to grab your attention. They will begin to whimper indicating their intensified hunger pangs or discomfort. The vocalization is usually followed by body movements or changes in facial expressions.    Wail Your toddler may appear very distressed by clenching and unclenching his fists and arching his back, followed by loud, constant cries. The first thing you can do is hold your baby for comfort and feed him if necessary.   Intense Crying A baby’s health condition, nourishment, and discomforts can only be indicated by the level of crying. Mostly, intense crying indicates that either your baby has health issues or is sensing discomfort for some reason. Frantic body movements, loud crying, and difficulty in consoling accompany this phase of crying.    Fatigue Once you have met all of your baby’s needs, he will gradually calm down. This is the end of your little one’s crying episodes, and you will eventually fall asleep due to exhaustion.    How to Soothe Your Baby’s Dilemma? Promptly responding to your child’s needs is the first thing a parent does, especially new parents. Sometimes, a baby cries out of loneliness, hunger, or discomfort. From a pediatrician’s perspective here are some tips:   Check for Basics The initial stages of crying are often the result of wet diapers, sleeplessness, or hunger. Make sure you check your baby’s necessities in sequence and take a look at their clothing, eyes, and body language. This will help you highlight what your child needs exactly.   Comforting Your Baby Hold your baby close to you, if you can offer skin-to-skin contact then that is a plus point. As a pediatrician, most infants enjoy skin-to-skin contact which calms them down immediately. Rock them along with you, use soothing sounds, or change your surroundings, these will help control their whimpers.   Set a Routine for Your Baby You may think it is too early, but it is the opposite. It is never too early to set your baby’s routine. Establish a regular playtime, feeding schedule, and sleep time to prevent wailing in the future. This can help settle down your little one and make them feel secure.    Trust Yourself A parent’s instincts about their children are no match. If your baby is crying out of control, look for signs that may indicate a high level of discomfort. Their red faces, clenched fists, and shrill crying indicate they have a gas problem. Don’t panic, follow your pediatrician’s guidance about gas-related tips and medications.   These points address the stages to help you nurture and grow your child in a supportive environment. But remember, every child is different and it is completely normal for babies to have varying crying patterns. Parenting can be challenging, and seeking the best pediatrician is okay. With time, you can learn to deal with your baby’s needs.

What are the benefits of early breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is a healthy and natural act a mother can do for her child. It strengthens the bond between mother and child and gives the newborn the best nutrition possible. But breastfeeding has much more benefits than just short-term health gains for mother and baby. We explore the many advantages of starting breastfeeding as soon as possible after delivery and continuing it exclusively for the first six months. Additionally, we will provide valuable guidance about choosing the best pediatrician in Dubai to help you and your child with nursing.  Immediate Health Advantages for the Infant For newborns, initiating breastfeeding at an early age has numerous immediate health benefits.  Benefits to Nutrition Breast milk is the best source of nutrients for the majority of babies. It provides exactly what a baby needs in perfectly balanced proportions for the first six months of growth. Breast milk is remarkably adaptive; it changes over time to meet the growing baby’s nutritional needs, especially in that critical first month. The first milk produced, called colostrum, is low in sugar and high in essential nutrients, vitamins, and proteins. This nutrient-dense powerhouse is essential for the baby’s developing digestive system and preventing hypoglycemia. Although breast milk has a natural abundance of all the necessary vitamins and minerals, vitamin D is typically absent. There may be a need for this particular nutrient in supplements. Enhanced Immune System Babies can fend off microorganisms and viruses way to the excessive stage of antibodies discovered in breast milk. These antibodies, which are intended to shield the mother from infections, were directly produced by her immune system. By forming a barrier that protects the infant’s digestive system and airway, these antibodies significantly reduce the risk of infection. Other immune factors found in breast milk include cytokines, lysozyme, and lactoferrin. These components help prevent asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, ear infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by lowering inflammation and boosting the baby’s immune system. Lower Death Rates Breastfeeding reduces the threat of contamination and new child loss of life extensively within the first hour after delivery. It promotes increased oxytocin production in the mother’s body, which lessens postpartum hemorrhage and aids in uterine contraction. Breastfeeding exclusively and from an early age has many advantages, according to the World Health Organization. 20,000 moms and 823,000 children could be spared from death annually, according to World Health Organization estimates. According to the World Health Organization, breastfeeding should continue until the child is at least two years old to reap the longer-term health benefits. Long-Term Developmental and Health Benefits Early breastfeeding has many long-term health and developmental benefits in addition to offering the baby immediate health benefits. These benefits include improved cognitive development as well as a lower chance of acquiring chronic illnesses later on. Enhanced Cognitive Growth Special fats found in breast milk, such as arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential for the development of the brain and nervous system. Compared to formula-fed infants, breast-fed infants have higher blood and brain tissue concentrations of these important fats. Studies reveal that breastfed children achieve better cognitive results. When compared to their peers who were fed a formula, they performed better academically and had higher IQs and more sophisticated language skills. Breastfeeding has nutritional advantages, but it’s also thought to improve the relationship between mother and child and improve the child’s chances of developing emotionally and socially. Reduced Chance of Persistent Illnesses Breastfeeding helps prevent several chronic conditions from developing later in a child’s life. These ailments include high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Moreover, breastfeeding may protect children against certain cancers, including lymphoma and leukemia. There are several theories as to why breastfeeding offers protection. These include the modulation of the immune system and the gut microbiome, the transfer of advantageous compounds found in the mother’s breast milk, and the regulation of the child’s hormonal and metabolic processes that govern appetite and energy balance. Positive Effects on Mother and Child’s Emotions and Psychology Early breastfeeding has great psychological and emotional benefits in addition to being beneficial for the physical health of the mother and child. These advantages include enhanced postpartum recuperation, better mental health, and a closer bond between mother and child. Strengthened Mother-Child Bond Because breastfeeding promotes more skin-to-skin contact, holding, and stroking, it fosters a special bonding experience that deepens the bond between mother and child. According to experts, this early, loving bonding is essential for lowering social and behavioral problems in children and adults. Breastfeeding increases the secretion of oxytocin, a hormone that helps mothers relax and focus better on their babies, strengthening their bond. In addition to promoting intense love and attachment, oxytocin helps mothers decode their babies’ signals, helping them develop confidence. The child’s behavioral and emotional development depends heavily on this early interaction. Recovery from Childbirth and Mental Health Breastfeeding improves the mother’s emotional well-being and aids in her postpartum recovery. It reduces inflammation, which has a connection to the body’s responses to stress. Elevations in inflammation have been linked to a higher prevalence of depression. Breastfeeding can also improve the mother’s sleep quality, which raises her morale and increases her energy. Additionally, it works well to reduce the risk of postpartum depression, which affects about 10% of new mothers. This type of depression can affect a mother’s ability to care for her newborn and herself, as well as the growth and development of the child. The hormone balance, stress reduction, and emotional support that breastfeeding provides make it a natural barrier against postpartum depression. Conclusion When breastfeeding is started as soon as the baby is born, it is a great way to support the health, development, and happiness of both the mother and the child. International health organizations like the World Health Organization advise this strategy, which promotes economic stability and a healthy diet. It is strongly advised that newborns start breastfeeding as soon as possible and do so exclusively for six

What are the missions and responsibilities of a pediatrician?

You as a parent should find a good pediatrician for your child. They specialize in the health of individuals from birth to adulthood. They also give parents and families the guidance and encouragement they need to raise happy, healthy kids. We will explain the function and importance of a pediatrician in supervising and promoting children’s health care. Core Duties of a Pediatrician The health and well-being of children from infancy through adulthood is the specialty of pediatricians, who are medical professionals. They carry out their responsibilities to guarantee that the best care is provided to their patients and their families. Included in these: Routine examinations and preventative healthcare Children receive medical care from pediatricians in the form of examinations, vaccinations, and regular well-child visits. They keep an eye on growth and progress, evaluate mental health, and spot issues before they become serious. Additionally, they advise caregivers and parents on how to prevent sickness and accidents and promote healthy habits and lifestyles in kids. Diagnosis and treatment of illnesses Pediatricians treat children’s infections, allergies, asthma, diabetes, and developmental disorders, among other acute and chronic illnesses and health issues. When necessary, they evaluate symptoms, request tests, review the findings, and suggest medication or other treatments. For extra assessment or care, they could additionally propose sufferers to experts or different allied fitness providers. Advice regarding safety, nutrition, and mental health Pediatricians advise and assist parents and other caregivers on a variety of topics. They offer steerage on what to eat, what dietary supplements to take, and what sports to live away from. They additionally help parents and different caregivers in coping with stress, emotional difficulties, and behavioral problems.   If youngsters require counseling or therapy, they may additionally provide it to them. Other roles and responsibilities of a Pediatrician Pediatricians may assume additional roles and responsibilities in addition to their primary responsibilities depending on their areas of expertise, background, and personal interests. These may consist of: Specialized Care for Complex Health Issues Some pediatricians have undergone further training and earned certification in particular subspecialties of pediatric medicine, such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, or surgery. For children with rare or complicated medical conditions that require more understanding and care, these healthcare professionals offer specialized care. They work closely with specialists and other medical professionals to provide patient care, and you can frequently see them in clinics and hospitals. Promoting the Rights and Needs of Children’s Health Pediatricians also act as a voice for children’s health needs and rights in society and on an individual basis. Legislators, educators, parents, and other caregivers could receive information from them regarding the critical factors influencing children’s health and well-being. To improve the standard of living and health outcomes for kids and families, they can also take part in research, policy development, or public health campaigns. The Pediatrician-Patient Relationship One of the most important aspects of pediatric care is the relationship between the physician and the patient. The foundation of this relationship is communication, mutual respect, trust, and medical expertise. Pediatricians have the responsibility and opportunity to build long-term relationships with children and their families, which can benefit them in many ways in terms of their overall health and well-being. Some crucial elements of the pediatrician-patient relationship are as follows: Building trust with children and families From their first meeting with children and families, pediatricians must establish and uphold trust throughout treatment. For parents to feel safe and satisfied with their pediatrician’s choices and advice, and for children to feel comfortable and secure in their care, trust is crucial. Pediatricians can establish credibility by: Being friendly, attentive, and empathetic Listening to the child’s and the family’s concerns and preferences Explaining the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in a clear and honest way Respecting the child’s and the family’s privacy and confidentiality Maintaining and extending medical care Education and support for families Pediatricians are also responsible for informing and assisting families on a range of topics related to development and child health. Parents and other caregivers can benefit greatly from the knowledge and direction pediatricians can offer regarding fostering and safeguarding the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their children. Pediatricians can help families learn and feel supported by:  Providing clarification on any doubts or questions they may have connecting people while assisting. directing them to additional professionals or resources. Promoting wholesome habits and behaviors in the child and the family Giving the child and family the freedom to take part in the process of caring and making decisions identifying and admitting the difficulties and strengths of the family Conclusion The health and well-being of the younger generation depend heavily on pediatricians, or medical professionals who specialize in treating children from birth through early adulthood. Their experience includes a wide range of duties, such as providing basic nutrition, safety, and mental health guidance, as well as diagnosing and treating illness and preventive health care. When looking for a pediatrician for your child in Dubai, it’s crucial to choose one with the right training and certification, that aligns with your values and preferences. Dr. Olfa is a reputable and one of the best pediatricians in Dubai. Contact us today!