What are the Symptoms of Anemia in Newborn Babies?

Anemia in newborns is when the baby's body has fewer red blood cells than normal. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as the baby being born prematurely, the rapid breakdown of red blood cells, the inability to produce enough red blood cells in the body, or the baby losing too much blood. Many babies do not need treatment for anemia.

What is Anemia in Newborn Babies?

Newborns with anemia have lower red blood cell counts than they should be. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Known as a kind of anemia, this ailment is literally physiological.

Why Does It Occur in Newborn Babies?

A newborn can develop anemia for a variety of reasons. These:

• The baby's body may not produce enough red blood cells. Most babies experience some anemia in the first few months of life. This is known as physiological anemia. This anemia occurs because the baby's body grows rapidly and it takes much more time for cell production to multiply.
• The body can break down red blood cells too quickly. This problem can occur when the blood types of the mother and the baby do not match. This is called Rh/ABO incompatibility. These babies often have jaundice, which can cause their skin to turn yellow. In some newborns, this condition can also be caused by genetic disorders or infections.
• This problem can also occur if the baby has lost too much blood. Blood loss in the neonatal intensive care unit often occurs because paramedics have to perform frequent blood tests. These tests are necessary to support general treatment. The blood taken is not replaced quickly, which causes anemia.
• Anemia may also occur if the baby is born prematurely. Those born prematurely may have fewer red blood cells. These cells have a shorter lifespan compared to the red blood cells of other babies. This condition is also called anemia of prematurity.
• However, other causes include internal bleeding.

What are the Symptoms of Anemia in Newborn Babies?

It is known that many babies with anemia do not develop any symptoms. Also, when symptoms do occur, they may be:

• Having pale skin.
• Fatigue and having low energy.
• Malnutrition or fatigue while feeding.
• A rapid heart rate and rapid breathing at rest.

How is Anemia Diagnosed in Newborn Babies?

Anemia is diagnosed by a doctor with a blood test. Tests used to help diagnose anemia:

• Hemoglobin test.
• Hematocrit test.
• Reticulocytes test.