Category: Dr. Allen Cherer Page 1 of 3

Some Common Health Problems in Newborns

On May 12, 2022

In blog, Child Health Care, Dr. Allen Cherer, Pediatrics

Most babies are vulnerable to health problems after they’re born. They may be born with a variety of conditions, and they can contract others easily. If you’re a new parent, it’s important that you know about the signs and symptoms of these conditions so that you can take the necessary steps to prevent or treat them. Here are some of the most common health problems seen in newborns today.

Jaundice

Jaundice is a common health issue that affects infants and children. It occurs when a baby has an excessive amount of bilirubin in their blood. This condition usually occurs because their liver is not mature enough to remove the excess bilirubin.

Although it usually disappears within 2 to 3 weeks of being born, it can still be a symptom of an underlying issue. Parents should consult their doctor if their baby’s jaundice persists longer than 3 weeks.

Respiratory Distress

This condition can occur when the baby’s nasal passage gets blocked, causing insufficient oxygen to enter the body. It can take a couple of hours for the baby to start breathing normally, and it can continue until the bluish coloration disappears. If the condition persists, it’s important that the child gets checked by a healthcare professional.

Abdominal Distension

Healthy infants and newborns are prone to experiencing abdominal distension. One of the most common causes of this condition is the baby’s swallowing of excess air. If the belly feels swollen or hard, this could be caused by constipation or gas.

As the baby’s body begins to adjust to eating, this condition should eventually resolve itself. However, if it persists, it can lead to a serious issue with the internal organs.

Colic

Although colic is very common in babies, it can be hard for parents to handle due to its nature. Although the exact causes aren’t known, it’s believed that it can be caused by various factors such as gas, hormones, overstimulation by light or sound, or even a growing digestive system.

Early signs of colic usually start to appear in 2 to 3 weeks and typically only last about 3 months. However, if it persists, it can be caused by an underlying health issue. It’s important to consult a doctor to diagnose the condition.

A Brief History Of Today’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On April 19, 2022

In Child Health Care, Dr. Allen Cherer, Pediatrics

When a baby is born prematurely or has a critical illness, the neonatal intensive care unit is usually the place to go. It has the latest equipment and medical experts to give that child the best chance of survival. This hasn’t always been the case though.

Before the 1950s, most premature and low-risk newborns were sent home. They didn’t receive the specialized care they needed, and many of them would not live past their first birthday. the NICU has come a long way since those days, so let’s talk about its evolutions through the years.

In The Beginning…

Early in the 17th century, scientists and doctors began discussing the care of at-risk and premature infants. During the 19th century, various forms of special care were being developed for these infants. After World War II, hospitals started to create specialized units for these children, becoming what we know today as the NICU.

While many medical experts through time were involved in advancing neonatal care, three, in particular, are considered pioneers in the field:

French obstetrician Dr. Etienne Tarnier (1828-1897) is known for his work on the well-being of premature infants. He came up with the idea of using a heated isolette to help premature babies stay warm and grow. He was inspired by the French farmers who used similar equipment to hatch chicken eggs.

Dr. Pierre-Courcy Budin (1846-1907) was another French obstetrician that devoted his career to improving the care of at-risk infants. He helped educate mothers about proper hygiene and nutrition. He also advocated for the use of gavage, which is a feeding tube that can be inserted into the stomach.

Although it’s not exactly clear if he had any medical training, Martin Arthur Couney (1869-1950) became known as the incubator doctor after he studied under Dr. Budin in Paris. He learned about the importance of using incubators for premature infants.

He became known for displaying live infants inside incubators at various events, such as fairs and expositions. Through his work, he was able to raise awareness about the importance of using incubators for premature infants.

The Rise of the NICU

The increasing number of studies that discovered the importance of humidity and heat in the survival rates of at-risk infants prompted more hospitals to create special care units for premature newborns. One of the first innovations to be used was the Hess incubator, which was invented by Dr. Julius Hess at Chicago’s Reese Hospital.

Louis Gluck, a doctor from the US, was another pioneer in the field of neonatal medicine. His research highlighted the risks of infection in premature babies.

He learned that poor hand hygiene could lead to infections among the babies in the special care unit. He then came up with a series of protocols that were designed to improve the hygiene of premature infants, as well as how we approached the design of these special care units. This led to what we know as the first American NICU unit opening at Yale New Haven Hospital in October 1960.

Getting To Today

Jacqueline Kennedy, wife of President John F. Kennedy, gave birth to a boy in August 1963. Unfortunately, he only lived for a couple of days before dying due to respiratory distress syndrome. This incident became very significant due to the seriousness of the situation and how public it was made, prompting professionals all over the world to take a closer look at how we approach the health challenges of premature infants.

Advancements in medical technology during the 1960s into the 1990s allowed any baby born alive to have a better chance of survival. As a result, multiple births became more common. This also led to more coverage of the care provided to premature babies.

During the 1990s, the number of hospitals that provide intensive care for premature infants grew. These facilities were equipped with highly trained medical teams that were able to respond to the needs of these kids.

Today, the care and treatment of premature and at-risk infants continues to improve due to the advancements in technology and the dedicated staff members of the hospitals that provide these services. It is truly amazing to see how far medical science has come in the field of neonatal medicine.

What does Neonatal Care Entail?

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On March 21, 2022

In blog, Child Health Care, Dr. Allen Cherer, Pediatrics

Neonatal care is essential in helping many newborn babies thrive. When a child is born prematurely, has a low birth weight, or has health concerns after birth, they will be cared for in the neonatal care unit. This special care provides personalized treatments based on the individual needs of each newborn. There are different levels of neonatal care. The level of care provided depends on the baby’s needs and many infants may go through several different levels as their condition changes.

Parents may feel anxious or fearful when hearing that their child will be taken to the neonatal care unit. This is understandable, but the medical care teams are experienced in helping parents understand procedures and providing information each step of the way. When a baby first arrives in the neonatal care unit, it will be assessed thoroughly so the medical team can come up with the best medical care strategy. The unit may be filled with many machines and devices that can look scary to a new parent. That’s why the staff takes great care in comforting parents and ensuring that they stay informed about their child’s health.

Neonatal care may involve regular testing and scanning to keep track of blood sugar, platelets, and white blood cells. The neonatal care unit is also capable of performing x-rays, MRIs, and other essential scanning procedures. These tests allow the medical care team to better understand the needs of the baby so they can tailor treatments based on those needs.

The medical staff working in the neonatal care unit understand that parents may be quite scared about their child needing extra care after birth. They do everything possible to allow parents to hold and interact with their children. Parents are encouraged to ask questions, which can help them better understand the need for various procedures. In many cases, a parent can be present to comfort their child through holding or touch.

The neonatal care unit provides specialized care for newborns that need additional attention after birth. Parents may be present during many procedures and are encouraged to actively participate in comforting their new baby when possible. While it may seem like a scary place at first, the neonatal care unit is designed to help babies heal and thrive.

What is Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome?

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On March 21, 2022

In blog, Child Health Care, Dr. Allen Cherer, Pediatrics

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a condition that occurs in newborns who were exposed to addictive substances in utero. When a pregnant mother uses drugs or alcohol, the baby can be born with NAS. This condition can cause various health problems for the infant, including seizures, feeding problems, and respiratory distress. In this article, we will discuss NAS’s causes, symptoms, and impact.

Causes of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

Several substances can cause NAS in a newborn, including opioids, and marijuana. When an expectant mother uses any of these drugs, the baby is at risk for developing NAS. The use of prescription painkillers is a major contributor to the development of NAS.

Symptoms of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

The symptoms of NAS vary depending on the mother’s drug during pregnancy. However, common symptoms include seizures, feeding problems, respiratory distress, and irritability. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and they usually develop within the first few days after birth. In some cases, NAS can lead to death.

Impact of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome on the baby

The impact of NAS on the baby can be devastating. The symptoms can cause physical and developmental problems, and they can also lead to long-term health issues. Some of the complications that babies with NAS may experience include:

Respiratory problems
Feeding difficulties
Seizures
Developmental delays
Behavioral problems
Low birthweight
Jaundice.

How Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is treated

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for NAS. Treatment depends on the severity of the baby’s symptoms and the mother’s drug. Some common treatments include:

Medication: Medications are often used to help relieve NAS symptoms. The most common medication used to treat NAS is methadone, which is an opioid agonist.
Nutritional support: Babies with NAS often have trouble feeding, so they may need to be fed through a tube.

Prevention of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

The best way to prevent NAS is to avoid using drugs and alcohol while pregnant. If you are pregnant and you need help to stop using drugs or alcohol, there are several resources available to you, including counseling and addiction treatment programs. It is also important to get regular prenatal care so that your doctor can monitor your baby’s development. If you think you may have an issue with drugs or alcohol, talk to your doctor about it. Getting help early on can make a big difference in the health of you and your baby.

IoT and Wearables in Healthcare

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On February 23, 2022

In blog, Dr. Allen Cherer

Due to the increasing popularity of wearable technology, such as the Internet of Things, the healthcare industry has become more receptive to its applications. Devices like smartwatches, wearable health monitors, and other tech-embedded tools are helping change the way we approach a lot of industries and healthcare.

As of the start of 2021, there were 11.3 billion IoT devices connected to the network, and the market held a value of $26.5 billion; that number is expected to reach $94.2 billion by 2026.

Wearables

One of the most critical developments in the healthcare industry is the emergence of wearable technology. Its ability to monitor a patient’s status remotely is incredibly valuable. A study from Deloitte found that nearly 40% of users had a smartwatch – with so many individuals already wearing the technology, it makes sense to incorporate health monitoring aspects as well.

Aside from monitoring heart rate, a smartwatch can also do other basic tasks such as keeping track of blood pressure and measuring physical health. It can also use specialized sensors to measure things like blood oxygen saturation.

Smartwatches are also improving their ability to collect data about blood vitals. By using photoplethysmography – an optical technology that can monitor variations in blood composition and volume – they can now provide users with more detailed information about their blood composition and volume.

Aside from monitoring a person’s vitals, wearable technology, such as bio patches and smart hearing aids, can also improve the quality of hearing for people with hearing loss.

Smart Pills

One of the most notable applications of the Internet of Things in healthcare is the development of smart pills, which are edible electronic devices that can serve as pharmaceutical drugs and give healthcare providers valuable patient information.

Creating Solutions for the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)

One issue scientists are currently working through is getting all of these devices to communicate with each other. It is a bit challenging due to the wide variety of microcontrollers used in the industry and each manufacturer’s proprietary software.

Being able to communicate with each other uninterrupted in times of need is also an issue, especially since various environmental factors can disrupt internet connections and thus data flow. Using IoT technology introduces new security issues as well.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On February 23, 2022

In blog, Dr. Allen Cherer

Artificial intelligence is changing our lives in many ways, including our approach to healthcare. Let’s look at how AI has made waves in the healthcare industry.

AI vs. COVID-19

The rise of the global pandemic has significantly impacted society, but technological innovations have helped keep us ahead of the curve. For instance, a Canadian company predicted that the COVID-19 bacteria would spread globally.

Machine learning also helped with the development of vaccines for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Studying protein fragments made it possible to develop effective vaccines much faster than ever before.

AI has also been used to identify people who might be infected with SARS or other contagious diseases. Aside from being able to detect individuals, it can also identify objects in public areas and even those who are wearing masks.

AI and Drug Development & Diagnosis

Aside from pandemic response, AI has also been utilized in other applications. For instance, it has been used to improve the efficiency of healthcare decisions.

In treating patients with COVID-19, AI has been able to detect the presence of pneumonia in CT scans. Microsoft created Project InnerEye, which allows users to create 3D models of their patients quickly. It saves time and helps in reducing the number of scans needed to complete.

AI and Mental Health

Aside from physical health, AI can also be used to study mental health. For instance, MIT and Harvard researchers were able to analyze thousands of Reddit messages to find out how topics about suicide and loneliness had increased over time.

AI and Telehealth

With the development of chatbot technology, it has been possible to improve the efficiency of telehealth services. For instance, a study conducted by UCLA researchers used AI and chatbot technology to create a virtual interventional radiologist that could help diagnose patients.

AI Requires Data

The most important component of AI in healthcare is data. A good training dataset is the key to successful development. Having a team composed of data scientists and software developers is also key to the success of AI in healthcare.

Neonatal Intensive Care Trends in 2021

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On January 19, 2022

In blog, Child Health Care, Dr. Allen Cherer, Pediatrics

Neonatal intensive care (NIC) is a term used to describe the care of premature, or very premature infants in an intensive setting. NIC is often necessary to save the infant’s life and provide long-term care for them. In 2021, there will be an increase in the number of babies born with significant medical conditions, such as heart disease and leukemia. To provide the best possible care for these infants, it is essential to understand the trends in NIC.

NICU admission and race/ethnicity

In the United States, several NICU admissions are racially, and ethnically diverse. In 2011, the NICU admissions of white babies were more than double that of black, and Hispanic infants. The NICU admission rates for black babies are still much less than that of white babies, but it is increasing faster. In 2011, the rate for Hispanic babies was three times the rate for white babies. This trend will continue to grow over time as more Hispanics become pregnant, and give birth in the United States.

Medication use

During the last few years, there has been a decrease in the number of premature infants’ medications. This trend is partly because there has been a decrease in the number of medications prescribed to infants during this period. The use of various pharmaceuticals has also decreased over time. The decrease in medication use is positive because it can help with other aspects of NIC care, and reduce potential side effects from medication use.

Newborn screening

The rate at which infants are screened for certain diseases increases over time. In 2011, newborn screening for Down syndrome was more than double that of 2001. This increase is likely because more people are becoming aware of Down syndrome, and are seeking out prenatal care. There is also an increased awareness of preconception screening for Down syndrome risks.

Conclusion

The above points are just a few of the many trends in NIC over the next few years. It is essential to understand these trends because they can help to shape the future of NIC. To provide the best care for all infants, it is essential to understand these trends and work together with other professionals to provide a high-quality NIC.

Tips for After you Receive your COVID-19 Booster Shot

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On December 21, 2021

In blog, Dr. Allen Cherer

It’s been hard to get through your day without feeling overwhelmed by the news of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with the help of this blog post, you can start to feel like you have a handle on things. This blog post will provide you with tips for living a healthy life during this pandemic.

What to do if you receive your COVID-19 booster shot

If you’re lucky enough to receive your COVID-19 booster shot, there are a few essential things to know. First of all, you must take the vaccine as soon as possible. The sooner you do so, the better your chances of avoiding the pandemic.

Secondly, while it might be tempting to wait until after a few doses to see if side effects happen, there is no reason to do this. If you avoid being vaccinated now and wait for the virus to start affecting you, later on, you will be putting yourself at risk for more severe symptoms because by then, it will be harder for your body to fight off the virus.

Thirdly, make sure that you have access to plenty of water during this time and stay hydrated at all times. It’s not just good for your health; dehydration can cause severe complications with traveling, work hours, and even home life in general.

How to live a healthy life during COVID-19

It can be challenging to keep up with the news as it comes; however, there are some important things you need to know. You should make sure you’re hydrating, staying active, and watching your diet.

Many experts agree that eating lots of fruits and vegetables is good during this pandemic. Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that can help boost your immune system. Additionally, they are nutrient-rich foods that offer a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Some other key areas to focus on during this pandemic include:

· Hydration
· Exercise
· Watching what you eat
· Avoiding overusing technology

Tips for managing stress.

If you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, here are some helpful tips for managing your stress.

Drink a glass of water before jumping into anything else.
Take a walk or go to the gym.
Make a list of things that help lift your mood, like listening to upbeat music or spending time with friends and loved ones.
Practice mindfulness meditation.
Ask for help if you need it.

Understanding Vaccine Mandates

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On November 18, 2021

In blog, Child Health Care, Dr. Allen Cherer, Pediatrics

Vaccines have saved millions of lives over the years by preventing diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria from spreading. But as more people refuse to vaccinate their children because of unfounded fears, those numbers could rise again. This post will explore the mandates of a vaccine.

Prevents diseases

Vaccines are typically thought to work by stimulating the body’s immune system to defend against disease-causing microorganisms, called pathogens. The weakened or killed virus in a vaccine cannot make you sick, but your body can develop the ability to fight the real thing. This is called immunity and the only way to build it is through vaccines.

Safe to use

Vaccines are tested extensively for safety and effectiveness before they come to market. In the United States, vaccines must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that vaccines have met strict scientific guidelines, proving them safe and effective. Most vaccine reactions are mild such as fever, redness or soreness where they were given, or temporary aches. Severe side effects are very rare but may include allergic reactions, a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can occur within minutes after vaccination occurs in someone who is known to be allergic to certain vaccine components.

Prevent epidemics

If a critical number of people in a community are vaccinated against the same disease, the odds of outbreaks become very small. This is called ‘herd immunity. Even those who cannot be vaccinated because they have compromised immune systems or other conditions benefit from herd immunity. This is why it is so important for everyone to get vaccinated, especially when an epidemic is looming.

Protects future generations

When enough people are vaccinated, diseases stop spreading. This protects everyone, including future generations because many vaccine-preventable diseases have no cure. Preventing disease through vaccination is one of the most successful and cost-effective health strategies in history. It is crucial to maintain high vaccination rates to ensure that these diseases do not return. Vaccines were responsible for making our world what it is today with all the achievements we’ve had so far.

Vaccines have saved millions of lives over the years by preventing diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria from spreading. We must keep vaccinating ourselves and our children to protect against outbreaks.

A Potential Universal Vaccine from Scientists at UVA

By Dr. Allen Cherer

On October 20, 2021

In blog, Child Health Care, Dr. Allen Cherer

While many think that the COVID-19 pandemic is a thing of the past, dozens of scientists throughout the world are working to develop a universal vaccine against the contagion. As demonstrated by the recent rise of the Delta variant, the coronavirus, like any other type of virus, can alter itself to resist vaccines, ensuring its continued survival. A universal vaccine would protect people from any mutation of the coronavirus. Accomplishing this, however, is difficult as scientists must determine what part of the virus is constant throughout all of its variations. Doctors at UVA Medical Center in Virginia believe that they have determined what part of the coronavirus to target in a universal vaccine.

Speaking with reporters from Charlottesville Tomorrow, Dr. Steven Zeichner, an infectious disease specialist at UVA Medical Center, says that his team believes that the fusion peptide of the coronavirus can provide a powerful opportunity in a universal vaccine. Dr. Zeichner explains that the fusion peptide is the part of the virus that sticks to a host’s cells and transfers genetic material. The fusion peptide is present in all variants of COVID-19 and even exists in other types of coronaviruses, namely MERS and SARS. The experts at UVA Medical Center quickly developed a vaccine centered around the fusion peptide and tested it on pigs. Results from the study found that the test animals were immune to COVID-19.

Although Zeichner’s team was happy with the results, it came as a great surprise. Originally, Zeichner and his colleagues were attempting to develop an inexpensive alternative to the current COVID-19 vaccines. Zeichner explains that while the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna provide excellent protection against COVID-19, the manufacturing process for them is highly intricate and not available in many parts of the world. Zeichner sought to develop a new vaccine against the coronavirus that would be easier to manufacture by infusing the virus with e-coli bacteria. In preparing to develop the new vaccine, Zeichner’s colleagues examined the genetic sequencing of COVID-19 and realized that the fusion peptide was universal throughout all of its variants.

While Zeichner is excited about the results, he explains that the vaccine is still in development and his team is still altering it to ensure that it offers maximum protection against the coronavirus. Furthermore, as a small lab, UVA Medical Center is not ideally suited to manufacture the vaccine and distribute it on a worldwide basis. To help with this problem, Zeichner has already reached out to the International Vaccine Institute of the World Health Organization.