b'Chapter hapterRecognising Illness in a Baby Under 6 MonthsDoctors practicing at the Royal Childrens Hospital in Melbourne along with the Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, conducted research to locate indications of illness in babies under 6 months of age.They found that it was common for most babies, within the first six months to develop an infection, which would result in a cough, diarrhoea or increased episodes of crying and irritability. Most babies react to a mild infection by continued crying, becoming increasingly unsettled and generally more demanding. Extra feeds and increased care and attention may be all that is necessary to resolve the condition.The difficulty faced by the first aider is to distinguish between a mild or severe illness.The most common indicators of serious illness are:Feeding less than 50% normal over a period of 24 hoursThis is evident with the amount consumed by bottle. Breast feeding mothers normally know if ababy is not feeding properly.Difficulty in breathingThere is evidence of rib retraction and use of other accessory muscles (drawing in of thespaces between the ribs and above the collarbones with each effort of breathing).The baby is less responsive than normal The baby appears lethargic and not fully aware when disturbed. If drowsiness becomes more persistent, it could be an indication that something serious is developing. Be cautious of a quiet lethargic baby.The baby is less active than normalThe baby appears to be moving the arms and legs a lot less than normal.Generally pale colour and increased temperatureThis is a high indication of possible infection and a doctor must assess the baby.An elevated temperature can lead to febrile convulsions.The baby has less than four wet nappies over a 24 hour periodThis is abnormal and indicates possible infection. The baby is likely to bedehydrated and generally unwell.Other high risk signs (but mostly rare) include:Vomiting bile stained fluid.Blood stained bowel movement.Alarming blue discolouration around the mouth, lips and earlobes (cyanosis).Temporary episodes of non-breathing (apnoea).Common Illness and Ailments 219'