Our immune system is like armor that is designed to protect us from infections. But it is also possible for it to go into overdrive in response to an infection. Sepsis is a life-threatening medical condition where the body responds to a fungal, viral or bacterial infection and damages its own tissues. Without treatment it can lead organ failure and death. In this article, we explore the sepsis symptoms, causes and essential nutrients that can protect your baby from bacterial infections.
Sepsis in newborn babies is also called as neonatal sepsis. It is a blood infection that occurs in an infant younger than 90 days old. The infection is in the baby’s blood and it can slowly affect other organs of the body or the entire body.
The most common cause of early onset sepsis in newborn babies is bacterial infections caused by Escherichia coli (E coli), Listeria, and other strains of streptococcus. The pathogens from the female genitourinary system can infect the amniotic fluid. This in turn can infect the baby. The newborn can also get infected during delivery as they pass through the vaginal canal.
Late onset sepsis in newborns can happen when the newborn is exposed to infections from the surrounding environment after birth in the hospital or at home. Often, newborns that need invasive interventions such as catheter, breathing tubes, or other procedures are at increased risk for developing sepsis infection. Preterm babies are also at higher risk for bacterial infections in newborns, as they have an underdeveloped immunity.
Sepsis symptoms in newborns include:
Word Of Warning: The symptoms may vary depending on the cause of the infection.
Studies have proven that vitamin D deficiency was found to be a risk factor for infection and sepsis in newborns. According to these studies, newborns with early onset sepsis had significantly lower levels of vitamin D. The study proved that vitamin D and calcium supplementation during in pregnancy may help to prevent in newborns.
Hera’s Strong Baby Enhancer prenatal vitamins contain calcium and vitamin D3 – essential for protecting against birth complications. This range has been especially formulated for pregnant women and helps them get a healthy start to their motherhood journey.
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Risk factors for sepsis infection in babies include:
Treatment for sepsis infection and bacterial infections in newborns includes:
Diagnosis for sepsis infection in newborn includes
Newborn sepsis and bacterial infections in newborns cannot be completely prevented. But some ways to lower the risk include:
Before delivery
Improving maternal health and nutrition before delivery, especially through calcium and vitamin D supplementation
Prenatal maternal screening and antibiotic treatment for fever or uterine tenderness
During delivery
After delivery
One must seek medical help at the earliest for a baby with sepsis symptoms.
Next Steps
Once your baby has been treated and discharged after a sepsis diagnosis, it is important to follow up with your pediatrician in 2 to 3 days to check for continued signs of recovery.
The bottom line,
Sepsis and bacterial infections in newborns is a potentially fatal condition caused by viruses, fungi, parasites, or bacteria. Sepsis symptoms can vary according to the bacteria or the pathogen causing the infection. One of the medically proven ways to reduce the risks of sepsis in newborns is through vitamin D and calcium supplements.
Hera’s range of prenatal vitamins containing calcium and vitamin D can help protect against birth complication.
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