Long and Short Term Health Problems of Preterm Infants
Common Preemie Health Problems
While babies are in the NICU, they face many health problems. Most are short term issues your baby will recover from or be treated for before leaving the NICU, but some may have long lasting consequences.
Long Term Impact of Being Born Premature
Most premature babies have no lasting effects of prematurity. Some babies, especially those who were born very early or who were very small, will have health or developmental problems as they grow.
Treating Reflux in Infants
Infant reflux is common in premature babies. Reflux may be short term and your baby may grow out of it before NICU discharge. Severe cases of reflux, though, can cause problems through the first year of life and beyond.
Health Concerns of the Late Preterm Infant
Defines late preterm babies and lists possible health concerns faced by infants born between 34 and 37 weeks gestation.
Premature Baby Survival
Preemie survival rates have increased as medical care has improved. Most micropreemies who survive will be normal or have only mild disabilities, but others will have severe health problems.
What Is a Micro Preemie?
Micro preemie is a name for the smallest, earliest preemies. These babies are very immature at birth, and are at risk for a number of health problems.
What Is Anemia in Preterm Infants?
Flu and Your Baby
Answers parents questions about the flu in babies born early or at term. Flu symptoms, treatments, and prevention are included.
What Is a Moderately Preterm Baby?
A moderately preterm baby is one born between about 31 and 34 weeks gestational age. Moderately preterm babies need NICU care in the early weeks and may have long or short term health problems related to their prematurity.
What is BPD in Preemies?
Defines bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or BPD, a long term health problem that premature babies may face.
RSV in Premature Infants
Symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and when to seek medical attention. Also how to prevent RSV and information about the RSV vaccination.
What Are Heat Stroke and Heat Illness?
Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat illness, a group of heat-related problems that can affect people of all ages, including premature babies.
What Is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral palsy is a movement disorder that premature babies are at risk for. FAQs include what causes CP, how CP is treated, and how CP is diagnosed.
Health Problems - What Health Problems did Your Preemie Have
Readers share their stories about health problems their premature babies had in the NICU.
Baby Healthy - Tips for Keeping Your Premature Baby Healthy
Parents share tips for keeping a premature baby healthy, especially during cold and flu season.
Late Preterm - Did You Have a Late Preterm Baby?
Parents share experience with having a late preterm baby.
How Can I Prevent Infant Dehydration in Hot Weather?
Frequently asked questions about infant dehydration in hot weather and dehydration in premature babies.
Dehydration - Readers Tips for Preventing Infant Dehydration
Readers share tips for keeping babies cool and preventing dehydration during hot weather.
Consequences of Prematurity: Impact of Preterm Birth on Multiples
Written by About.com's Guide to Multiples, this easy to read article addresses the long- and short-term impact of preterm birth as it relates to multiple births. Parents of singleton preemies will also find helpful information here.
A Primer on Preemies
Not only does this article contain descriptions of many of the most common health problems that premature babies face, it also includes information on the basic needs of premature babies and the some of the long-term medical treatments preemies may need.
