Overview
Neonatology focuses on the care of newborn infants, particularly those who are born prematurely, have low birth weight, or face medical complications at birth. At Parvathy Hospital, our Neonatologists with expertise in managing the unique health needs of newborns diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions that may arise in the early days or weeks of life.
Common Areas of Focus
Neonatologists address a variety of medical conditions and challenges faced by newborns, including but not limited to:
- Prematurity: Managing the health and development of infants born before 37 weeks of gestation.
- Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): Treating breathing difficulties often seen in premature infants due to underdeveloped lungs.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Care: Providing specialized care for newborns requiring intensive medical attention.
- Infections: Diagnosing and treating infections that may affect newborns, often due to immature immune systems.
- Birth Defects: Addressing congenital conditions and abnormalities that may require medical intervention.
- Jaundice: Managing elevated bilirubin levels that can lead to yellowing of the skin and eyes.
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR): Monitoring and managing infants who did not grow adequately in the womb.
- Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS): Caring for infants born to mothers who used certain substances during pregnancy, leading to withdrawal symptoms in the newborn.
- Birth Asphyxia: Providing interventions for infants who experience oxygen deprivation during birth.
- Congenital Heart Conditions: Managing newborns with heart defects that may require surgical or medical intervention.
Treatment and Care
Neonatology involves a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care of newborns. Treatment and care may include:
- Neonatal Resuscitation: Providing immediate medical attention and support to newborns who require assistance with breathing or other vital functions.
- NICU Care: Offering specialized care in neonatal intensive care units for infants with medical complications.
- Monitoring and Assessments: Conducting regular assessments of newborns' health, growth, and development.
- Nutritional Support: Ensuring that newborns receive appropriate nutrition, whether through breastfeeding, formula, or intravenous nutrition.
- Management of Respiratory Conditions: Providing respiratory support, including ventilator assistance, for infants with breathing difficulties.
- Infection Management: Administering antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat infections in newborns.
- Developmental Care: Implementing interventions to support the developmental needs of premature or medically fragile infants.
- Family-Centered Care: Engaging families in the care process, providing education, and offering emotional support.
- Follow-Up Care: Coordinating ongoing care and follow-up appointments, particularly for infants with chronic medical conditions.
- Collaboration with Pediatric Specialists: Coordinating care with other pediatric specialists, such as pediatric cardiologists or pediatric surgeons, when needed.
When to Consult a Doctor ?
It is advisable to consult a neonatologist at Parvathy Hospital, when:
- You are expecting a high-risk pregnancy or anticipate the birth of a premature or medically fragile infant.
- Your newborn requires specialized medical attention due to prematurity or medical complications.
- Your newborn is experiencing health issues or developmental concerns.
- You are seeking guidance on neonatal care, feeding, or developmental milestones.
- Your newborn requires surgery or interventions for congenital conditions.
Meet The Neonatology Specialist
Dr Anjana S R Krishnan
MBBS., MD (Pediatrics)
Senior Consultant Pediatrician
Dr. Anjana S.R. Krishnan is a highly qualified Consultant Pediatrician with an MBBS and MD in Pediatrics. With a strong background in General Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency Room (ER), and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), she has demonstrated expertise in examining, diagnosing, and treating diseases in infants and children.
Dr. Anjana S.R. Krishnan is a highly qualified Consultant Pediatrician with an MBBS and MD in Pediatrics. With a strong background in General Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency Room (ER), and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), she has demonstrated expertise in examining, diagnosing, and treating diseases in infants and children.
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Dr Vinushya S
MBBS., MD (Pediatrics)
Consultant Pediatrician
Dr. Vinushya Selvam, a Consultant Pediatrician with an MBBS and MD in Pediatrics, has a notable career in pediatric healthcare. In her previous role, as Assistant Professor at SIMTS, she oversaw intensive care for children, addressing various conditions, including infectious diseases, neurological disorders, and post-operative care.
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Call +91 98412 98412 for medical emergencies or 044 2238 2248 / +91 98848 99091 to book an appointment.
General (FAQ) For Neonatology
Prematurity is defined as the birth of an infant before completing 37 weeks of gestation.
Various factors can contribute to prematurity, including multiple pregnancies, infections, maternal health issues, and certain lifestyle factors.
After preterm birth, premature infants may require specialized care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to address potential health complications.
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is a breathing disorder in premature infants caused by insufficient surfactant production in the lungs.
The recovery time for RDS varies, but with medical intervention and support, premature infants can improve over days to weeks.
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides specialized care for premature or ill newborns, including monitoring, respiratory support, and nutritional management.
NICU is a high-level neonatal care unit equipped to handle critical medical situations for premature or ill newborns.
Common birth defects include heart defects, Down syndrome, cleft lip and palate, neural tube defects, and genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis.
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) care involves providing a supportive environment, monitoring withdrawal symptoms, and, in severe cases, medication-assisted treatment.
NAS duration varies, but symptoms typically peak within 72 hours of birth and gradually improve over several weeks.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) may be managed through careful monitoring, addressing underlying causes, and, in severe cases, early delivery or medical interventions.
Survival rates for IUGR babies depend on the severity of the condition and the timeliness of intervention. Early detection and appropriate care improve outcomes.
