Neonatology
A neonatologist specializes in caring for premature infants or newborns with complex health conditions or high-risk situations. If your baby is born prematurely or with a medical condition or congenital disability, a neonatologist will oversee your baby’s medical care. Neonatologists may also be involved in prenatal care if a health issue is detected before birth, and they may provide immediate care to newborns in the delivery room in certain cases.
Typically found in hospitals, neonatologists work primarily in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), specialized facilities equipped to provide round-the-clock care for sick or premature infants.
What does a neonatologist do?
A neonatologist specializes in providing specialized care to newborns facing severe illnesses, injuries, or congenital disorders. They may become involved in prenatal care if a congenital disorder is detected before birth, collaborating with obstetricians to ensure appropriate medical attention for the baby at birth. Alternatively, they may be called upon after birth if the baby’s condition is unexpected.
Neonatologists:
- Diagnose and treat disorders, infections, or illnesses in newborns.
- Coordinate and manage care, including surgical interventions and treatment plans.
- Order diagnostic tests such as blood tests, X-rays, echocardiograms (EKGs), or ultrasounds to monitor conditions or organ function.
- Ensure sick or ill babies receive appropriate nutrition.
- Provide immediate care and assistance in the delivery room for newborns with medical conditions at birth.
What Conditions or diseases does a Neonatologist Treat?
Neonatologists specialize in providing care for newborns or infants requiring specialized attention due to illness or injury. Some common conditions or diseases they address include:
- Prematurity or underdeveloped organs.
- Low birth weight or fetal growth restriction.
- Congenital malformations or birth disorders.
- Respiratory or breathing problems.
- Heart conditions such as heart failure, septal defects, or bradycardia.
- Brain conditions like seizures or intracranial bleeding.
- Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia.
- Nutritional management and growth support, including the insertion of feeding tubes.
- Jaundice or other liver or kidney issues.