Infants are often given steroids in order to prevent respiratory problems.
Most infants are given two dosages of steroids before birth.
However, premature infants often do not receive the second dosage of steroids.
Fortunately, researchers have recently discovered that premature infants can still benefit from dosages of steroids.
An extra dosage of steroids was found to aid in strengthening an infant’s respiration.
Best of all, doctors have not found any adverse side effects to giving an infant a dose of steroids. The steroids have absolutely no effect on the infant’s growth.
Risk factors
Mortality is higher with premature infants. In fact, premature birth is responsible for 10% of all infant deaths. Premature infants that survive are likely to suffer from:
- Brain diseases
- Intracranial hemorrhage
- Scarring of the eye and retinal detachment
- Developmental disability
- Cerebral palsy
- Heart issues
- Respiratory problems
- Respiratory Distress Syndrome
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Metabolic issues
- Hypoglycemia
- Eating difficulties
- Softening of the bones and potential bone fracture
- A difficulty regulating calcium in the blood
- Holes in the abdominal cavity
- Tissue death in the digestive system
- Anemia of prematurity
- Low blood platelet levels
- Yellowing of the skin
- Kernicterus
- Inflammation and infection of the entire body
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infection
Not all premature infants suffer from severe developmental disorders. The severity of the developmental disorders often has to do with how early the infant is conceived.
There are many premature infants that have mild disorders that might not even been noticeable.
Other disorders to not show up until adulthood are like kidney stones, cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and reproductive disorders.
Showing emotions helps a premature infant develop cognitively
Fortunately, there is a second new discovery that can assist in the development of premature children.
Researchers have discovered that the mental development of premature infants can be improved if parents show synchrony with their infants.
Cognitive and emotional development of the infant is facilitated if parents are able to share emotions and match the mood of the infant.
Parenting premature children
Before you bring your premature infant home, you must make sure that the infant is gaining weight and capable of drinking bottled or breast milk. Your infant must also be able to breathe and maintain a healthy body temperature.
Check with your doctor to see if any special equipment needs to be brought home with your infant. Parents of premature infants might have to be held back from school.
Some premature children might have a difficulty assimilating with peers. But with proper care and support, many premature infants can grow up to be healthy and happy adults.
