Concerns About Infant Hearing, Feeding, and Health: A Pediatric Guide

Hearing problems

1.
My baby is 50 days old.
Since my father-in-law likes to hold her while watching TV, and the volume is very loud (I can clearly hear the TV sound from the third floor), I would like to ask if this will have a negative impact on the baby's hearing?
2.
Is there any radiation effect from holding the baby while using the computer?
3.
Another question, my baby tends to spit up a lot.
Currently, she drinks 120cc every 3-4 hours, but often after burping and lying down, she will spit up, sometimes a lot, which even goes into her nostrils.
She also often chokes on her own saliva, and during these episodes, she seems startled and cries loudly.
Should I seek medical attention for this?
4.
After taking medication to suppress lactation, can I still breastfeed?
5.
Lastly, my baby had a cephalohematoma on the right side of her head due to vacuum extraction at birth, which has not yet resolved.
How long does it typically take for this swelling to go down? As a new mom, I have many questions.
Thank you for your answers.

judy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/27

Dr. Hong Shaohui reply Pediatrics

Dr.
Lin Wen-Hsien from the Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health, Executive Yuan, responded that this mother is indeed very concerned about her baby's development and health issues.
With more questions, attentive listening, and practical caregiving experience, she will soon become adept at it.
Regarding hearing issues, being in an environment with excessively loud noise for too long can indeed affect hearing.
If the television volume reaches a level that is uncomfortable, it is not suitable for children.
Additionally, prolonged exposure to computer screens can be harmful to infants who are still developing their vision.
A 50-day-old baby will gradually start to focus on moving objects, so it is not advisable for them to spend long periods in front of a screen, as it can create a habit of screen dependency.
Furthermore, it is common for infants to experience spitting up and choking.
It is important to quickly turn the infant to the side when this occurs, allowing saliva and milk to flow out, and then gently pat their back to soothe them.
Normal infants have a natural cough reflex that protects them, making it rare for them to choke to the point of developing pneumonia.
However, if the baby exhibits abnormal respiratory symptoms, such as prolonged coughing after choking, medical attention should be sought.
In terms of breastfeeding, generally speaking, weaning medications do not affect the composition of breast milk, so there should be no impact.
The mother can inquire further about the specific medications administered for more information.
Cephalohematoma will naturally absorb over time and does not require special treatment; larger hematomas will take longer to resolve, so the mother should remain patient.
Of course, she can always bring the baby in for a check-up with a pediatrician.
Tainan Hospital wishes you good health and all the best!

Reply Date: 2004/08/27

More Info

As a pediatrician, I understand the concerns you have regarding your newborn's health and development. Let’s address each of your questions in detail.

1. Impact of Loud TV on Hearing: Exposure to loud noises can indeed have a detrimental effect on an infant's hearing. Newborns have sensitive auditory systems, and prolonged exposure to loud sounds, such as a television at high volume, can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. It's advisable to keep the volume at a moderate level and limit the time your baby is exposed to such environments. Ideally, the sound level should be below 60 decibels, which is roughly the sound level of normal conversation. If you notice any signs of hearing difficulties, such as lack of response to sounds, it would be prudent to consult a pediatric audiologist.

2. Radiation from Computers: The concern about radiation from computers is common among parents. However, the type of radiation emitted from computers is non-ionizing and is generally considered safe. While there is no substantial evidence to suggest that this type of radiation poses a risk to infants, it is still wise to limit screen time for young children. Instead, focus on interactive play and activities that promote sensory development.

3. Spitting Up and Choking: Spitting up is quite common in infants, especially after feeding. It usually occurs due to an immature digestive system. However, if your baby is frequently choking on spit-up or saliva, it’s essential to monitor the situation closely. When your baby spits up, try to keep her upright for 20-30 minutes after feeding and burp her gently to help release any trapped air. If she seems to be in distress, has difficulty breathing, or if the spitting up is accompanied by a significant amount of force, you should seek medical attention. In most cases, spitting up decreases as the baby grows and her digestive system matures.

4. Breastfeeding After Taking Medication: If you have received medication to suppress lactation (such as a "退乳針"), it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider regarding the specific medication used. Many medications do not affect the quality of breast milk, but some may have contraindications. Always check with your doctor before resuming breastfeeding after taking any medication.

5. Cephalohematoma Resolution: A cephalohematoma, which is a collection of blood between the skull and the periosteum (the membrane covering the skull), can take time to resolve. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for the swelling to completely disappear. The rate of absorption can vary based on the size of the hematoma and the individual infant. Regular check-ups with your pediatrician can help monitor the situation and ensure that there are no complications.

In conclusion, it’s essential to maintain a healthy environment for your baby, including managing noise levels, monitoring feeding practices, and being aware of any health concerns. Regular pediatric check-ups will help ensure that your baby is developing appropriately and that any issues are addressed promptly. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for personalized advice and support.

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