Common Concerns for Your 3-Month-Old Baby: A Pediatric Guide

The issue with the baby?

Hello Doctor: My baby is currently 3 months old and will turn 4 months in 2 weeks, weighing 8 kg.
I have some questions regarding her health.

1.
My baby shakes a little before urinating, which has been happening since birth but has become more frequent recently.
Is this normal? (Previously, elders mentioned that this is common in babies, but since it's happening more often now, I wanted to consult you.)
2.
My baby's hands sometimes have an unpleasant odor.
Is this normal?
3.
Recently, when drinking formula, my baby will suck a little and then cry very loudly (a distressing cry), refusing to continue feeding.
This usually lasts about 5 minutes, after which she will drink again in about 1-2 hours.
Is this behavior normal? (Sometimes she also screams.) When breastfeeding, she occasionally gags after sucking and sometimes spits up.
Is this considered normal?
4.
Sometimes she gets very excited and screams continuously.
Is this okay?
5.
How can I determine if my baby has allergies? She sometimes rubs her eyes; does that count? Thank you!

tsae, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/01/29

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Dear tsae,
Hello!
1.
The phenomenon known as "cold shivering" (shaking while urinating) occurs because the body expels a significant amount of heat energy during urination.
The body compensates for this loss of heat by shivering to generate warmth, which helps maintain a stable body temperature.
This mechanism ensures that enzymes within the body can function effectively and efficiently to sustain basic physiological functions.
This is more common in colder weather!
2.
If a baby's hands smell bad, it could be due to not washing them properly after play, or it may be a case of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
It could also be from placing their hands in their mouths or other areas, leading to a saliva-like odor.
Please pay attention to this!
3.
Infants often experience colic around three to four months of age, which coincides with a peak in gastroesophageal reflux.
Generally, the likelihood of such episodes decreases after four months.
However, it is advisable to consult a pediatric gastroenterologist for peace of mind!
4.
If a baby is happy and continuously squealing, it is usually not a concern unless there are signs of hoarseness or vomiting.
5.
Allergic diseases in children can manifest like a march.
Infants under one year may experience atopic dermatitis, while allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and asthma tend to increase in prevalence among toddlers aged two to three years.
Symptoms such as itchy eyes and nose often lead to rubbing, which can cause poor blood circulation around the eyes, resulting in dark circles.
Generally, diagnosing allergies requires a comprehensive assessment of medical history, family history, physical examination, and laboratory tests for allergens.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng
Director of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2010/01/29

More Info

Dear Parent,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your 3-month-old baby. It’s completely normal to have questions at this stage, as every parent wants to ensure their child is healthy and developing properly. Let’s address each of your concerns one by one.

1. Shaking Before Urination: It’s not uncommon for babies to exhibit certain behaviors before urination, including shaking or twitching. This can be a reflexive action as they prepare to relieve themselves. However, if you notice that this shaking has become more frequent or is accompanied by signs of discomfort, it would be prudent to consult your pediatrician. They can rule out any underlying issues, such as a urinary tract infection or other concerns.

2. Smelly Hands: Babies can sometimes have smelly hands due to various reasons, including sweat, milk residue, or even drool. Since babies are often exploring their environment with their hands, they may come into contact with various substances that can cause odors. Regular cleaning of your baby's hands and ensuring they are dry can help mitigate this issue. If the smell persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as redness or irritation, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

3. Crying During Feeding: It’s concerning when a baby cries intensely during feeding, especially if they seem to be in distress. This could be due to several reasons, including gas, reflux, or simply a preference for breastfeeding over formula. Babies can also experience a phase of fussiness, which is common around this age. If your baby is crying after taking a few sips of formula, it might be worth trying a different formula or ensuring that the bottle nipple is the right size for their age. If the crying continues or worsens, please consult your pediatrician to rule out any feeding issues or allergies.

4. Screaming with Happiness: Babies often express their emotions through sounds, and it’s quite normal for them to squeal or scream when they are excited or happy. This is a part of their development as they learn to communicate. As long as your baby is not in distress and is happy, this behavior is generally considered normal.

5. Identifying Allergies: Allergies in infants can be tricky to identify. Common signs include rashes, excessive fussiness, gastrointestinal issues, or respiratory problems. If your baby is rubbing their eyes frequently, it could be a sign of allergies, but it can also be a normal behavior as they explore their body. Keep a diary of any symptoms you observe, including when they occur and any potential triggers (like new foods or environmental changes). If you suspect your baby may have allergies, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician for appropriate testing and guidance.

In summary, while many of the behaviors you describe can be normal for a 3-month-old, it’s essential to monitor them closely. If you have any doubts or if your baby seems to be in distress, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. They can provide reassurance and help you navigate any concerns you may have. Remember, every baby develops at their own pace, and it’s okay to seek help when needed.

Wishing you and your baby all the best!
Warm regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams
Pediatric Specialist

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