Newborns often appear perfectly healthy on the outside, but doctors warn that some serious health conditions can remain hidden during the first few days or weeks. Early identification is crucial. Here are the major hidden illnesses and their warning signs:
1. Jaundice
Many newborns develop jaundice after 2–3 days. If the yellowish color spreads to the chest, legs, or palms, or if the baby becomes unusually sleepy, it needs immediate attention.
2. Infections (Sepsis)
A newborn can have a hidden infection even without a fever. Warning signs include refusal to feed, very low or high temperature, irritability, too much sleepiness, or reduced activity.
3. Low Blood Sugar
Symptoms include trembling, bluish skin, weak crying, cold body temperature, or difficulty feeding. Low blood sugar can become dangerous quickly.
4. Heart Defects (Congenital Heart Disease)
Some heart issues are not visible at birth. Watch for fast breathing, blue lips, trouble feeding, sweating while feeding, or poor weight gain.
5. Thyroid Disorders (Congenital Hypothyroidism)
Babies may look normal but still have thyroid issues that slow growth and development. Early newborn screening is essential to detect this.
6. Breathing Problems
If a baby breathes very fast, flares the nostrils, grunts, or the chest sinks in while breathing, it can be a sign of a hidden respiratory problem.
7. Metabolic Disorders
These affect how the baby’s body processes nutrients. Symptoms include vomiting, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, or failure to gain weight.
8. Hearing Problems
Some newborns have hearing loss that isn’t obvious. If the baby doesn’t react to loud sounds, doesn’t blink at sudden noises, or doesn’t startle, hearing screening is necessary.
