Every new mum experiences those moments of panic: “Is this normal?” From sneezes to rashes and strange sleeping patterns, it’s hard to know what’s typical and what needs urgent attention.
This guide breaks down the most common newborn health issues Nigerian mums face, how to manage them at home, and red flags that signal it’s time to call the doctor.
Contents
1. Colic
What it looks like:
- Long, intense crying (often in the evening)
- Baby pulls legs to chest, clenches fists
- Not soothed by feeding, burping, or rocking
What to do:
- Hold baby upright after feeds
- Gently rock or swaddle
- Try tummy massages or bicycle leg movements
When to worry:
- Vomiting (not just spit-up)
- High-pitched crying or arching back
2. Jaundice
What it looks like:
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (especially in first 7 days)
What to do:
- Breastfeed often to flush out excess bilirubin
- Mild jaundice is normal and resolves on its own
When to worry:
- Yellowing spreads to arms and legs
- Baby is very sleepy or refuses to feed
- Jaundice appears after 7 days
3. Baby Acne
What it looks like:
- Small red or white bumps on cheeks, nose, or forehead
- Appears around 2–4 weeks of age
What to do:
- Clean with lukewarm water
- Avoid lotions or oily creams
- No need for medication. it clears on its own
When to worry:
- Rash spreads or looks infected
- Baby is scratching or irritable
4. Hiccups
What it looks like:
- Rhythmic jerky sounds during or after feeding
What to do:
- Burp baby after feeding
- Hold baby upright for 20 mins post-feed
When to worry:
- Hiccups don’t stop after feeds and seem uncomfortable
- Accompanied by choking or breathing issues
5. Constipation
What it looks like:
- Straining, hard pellet-like stools
- Less than 3 bowel movements per week (after week 6)
What to do:
- For formula-fed babies, check dilution ratio
- Gently massage tummy or move legs in bicycle motion
When to worry:
- Blood in stool
- Baby is visibly uncomfortable or refuses to eat
6. Fever
What it looks like:
- Temperature over 38°C (100.4°F)
What to do:
- Strip baby to a single layer
- Offer breastmilk or formula more frequently
When to worry:
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months requires immediate medical attention
- Baby is listless, feeding poorly, or breathing rapidly
7. Breathing Noises or Sneezing
What it looks like:
- Noisy breathing, nasal congestion
- Frequent sneezing
What to do:
- Use a saline drop and suction bulb for stuffy nose
- Keep baby’s room dust-free and well-ventilated
When to worry:
- Struggling to breathe or flaring nostrils
- Lips or hands turn blue
8. Umbilical Cord Care
What it looks like:
- Cord dries and falls off within 1–2 weeks
What to do:
- Keep dry and exposed
- Clean gently with a damp cloth
When to worry:
- Foul smell or pus
- Red, swollen area around the navel
General Tips for Nigerian Mums
- Keep a baby health diary to track symptoms and doctor visits
- Have a trusted paediatrician nearby or on speed dial
- Don’t rely solely on Google or WhatsApp groups for medical decisions
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, speak up
Chikaro Recommends
- Thermometers for accurate fever checks
- Nasal suction kits
- Baby bath essentials for skin irritation
- Easy-clean baby clothes for comfort during colic episodes
Final Thoughts
Newborns are delicate but so are new mums. Take a deep breath and remember: most baby ailments are common and treatable. With calm observation, gentle care, and support, you’ll gain confidence in your ability to handle the tough moments.
