Date: February 1st 2005

February 2005 E-news: Medicine for breastfeeding moms, unpasteurized juice, flu alert, and is Motrin still safe?

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BABY 411 NEWS UPDATE: February 2005
The free eNewsletter for the readers of BABY 411
http://www.Baby411.com
February 2005
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In this newsletter:
1. Medication for breastfeeding moms
2. Pass on unpasteurized juice
3. Flu alert
4. Is Motrin still safe?
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1. MEDICATION INFO FOR BREASTFEEDING MOMS

Pseudoephedrine, a common decongestant used in cough and cold medications, may significantly lower milk production in breastfeeding moms. So, if you have a runny nose, you may want to use an antihistamine or a decongestant nasal spray instead. And of course, it’s always a good idea to check in with your baby’s doctor.

Many breastfeeding moms and babies pass thrush (a yeast infection) back and forth and have difficulty getting rid of it. Here are a few tips from Linda Hill, certified lactation consultant:

If mom or baby has a yeast infection, both parties get treated whether they show symptoms or not. Moms can use over the counter Monistat or Lotrimin up to four times daily while there are symptoms.

Moms who are being treated with antibiotics (e.g for mastitis) are at higher risk of developing yeast infections. Taking 1 capsule of acidophilus per day while on antibiotics may prevent yeast overgrowth.
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2. PASS ON UNPASTEURIZED JUICE

The Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about unpasteurized juice. These juices are not treated to kill off bacteria that cause food poisoning (like E coli infections). Infants and young children are at higher risk of serious infection. Juice products sold in bottles must display a warning label. But beware of fresh squeezed products or those sold by the glass, like juices and cider at roadside stands or farmers markets. There is no labeling requirement.
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3. FLU ALERT

Flu season has arrived. Thirty five states reported flu outbreaks to the Centers for Disease Control last week. Fourteen states* and New York City are report widespread flu infection. There have been three deaths in children due to the flu this season.
(* New England states, Texas, Kansas, Colorado, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Kentucky)

Influenza (or “the flu”) is a respiratory infection caused by a virus. It is more severe than the common cold, with longer lasting symptoms and higher risk of secondary bacterial infections (such as pneumonia).

Symptoms include high fever, often 102 or greater, body aches, and chills. Then comes the runny nose, cough, and sore throat.

Diagnosis can be made by physical examination, blood work, or a rapid flu test in the doctor's office. If the diagnosis is made within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, anti-viral medication can be given to children one year and older to shorten the course of
the illness.
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4. IS MOTRIN STILL SAFE?

Many of you saw the recent news about a child’s family suing the makers of Children’s Motrin (ibuprofen). The family claimed their daughter lost her eyesight as a result of taking the medicine.

The little girl had an allergic reaction, known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This syndrome can be caused by viral illness, and as a rare adverse reaction to many types of medications including antibiotics, ibuprofen, and seizure medications.

Is it still okay to give your child ibuprofen? Yes. But it is important to realize that any medication, even over the counter ones, can have side effects.
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Stay tuned for our next book adventure: Baby 411: The Grandparent’s Edition. Share your favorite experiences and wisdom with us in an upcoming reader poll and we will include you in the book!

Ari Brown, M.D. & Denise Fields, authors
BABY 411
Web: www.Baby411.com