The umbilical cord is a necessity for the baby to develop in the uterus. Before thinking about the umbilical cord infection symptoms you should know that normally the umbilical cord dries and shrinks and it also changes its color. Usually the cord falls off within 2 weeks from birth and it is possible to see some bleeding.
Information about the symptoms of umbilical cord infection
If there is an infection of the umbilical cord it usually presents symptoms in 9 weeks after birth. The most common symptoms include drainage from the cord; it is possible to see puss coming from it. In the same time other signs involve redness around the umbilical cord.
If you notice the signs of umbilical cord infection, it is possible to see some swelling and the skin could become tender around the cord. Naturally the little one will be fussy and he or she may have fever as well. It is common for the baby to develop a lack of appetite until the infection is gone.
Evaluating the umbilical cord infection symptoms
In order to find out just how serious the infection is, there is need for a doctor to evaluate the situation. He or she will take bacterial cultures from the site of the infection and the little one will have a complete blood count test.
Treating the umbilical cord infections
In order to treat the infection, the little one will have to take antibiotics regularly and the parents will have to clean the area around the umbilical cord very thoroughly. If the infection is serious, the baby might have to stay in the hospital for a while to receive IV antibiotics and there may be need for surgery to remove the infected tissue.
Specific treatment of the umbilical cord infection
The parents will have to clean the site of the infection 1-3 times a day. The antibiotics used to treat the infection usually include Gentamicin, Clindamycin, Oxacillin, Ampicillin, Metronidazole, and Vancomycin. Pediatricians and your doctor will be able to assess the infection and to come up with a treatment plan.
Home care for umbilical cord infections
If the baby shows umbilical cord infection symptoms, you should avoid bathing him or her and make sure that you clean both the site of the infection and the stump. Ensure that the stump is dry and clean and avoid covering the stump with the diaper.
