Top 7 Treatments for Bluish Skin in Babies

The bluish appearance of the skin of babies can be a cause of concern for parents. It usually occurs due to blue baby syndrome and indicates improperly functioning heart and lungs. Here are the top 7 treatments that are effective for the management of bluish skin in babies.

7. Surgical Management

Babies diagnosed with congenital heart defects usually need surgery to correct the defect. It may involve the replacement of the damaged or improperly developed valves or repair of the septum that separates the chambers of the heart. [1]

6. Intra-cardiac corrective repair

Intra-cardiac corrective repair is another surgical procedure performed in babies with Tetralogy of Fallot. During this procedure, a synthetic Dacron patch is placed within the heart to close the defect or hole in the septum between 2 ventricles. [2]

5. Stent placement

Babies who have bluish skin due to the underdeveloped arteries of the lungs and heart may need stent placement to improve the blood flow. It is a temporary procedure usually carried out in premature babies.During this procedure, a shunt is created between the pulmonary artery and the branch of aorta to allow for the flow of blood. [3]

4. Intravenous Methylene Blue

Intravenous administration of Methylene Blue offers an effective treatment for bluish skin caused due to methemoglobinemia. It works by stimulating the conversion of methemoglobin to a form of hemoglobin that can carry oxygen to all the organs of the body more efficiently. [4]

3. Avoid Contaminated Water

The presence of nitrates in well water or contaminated water can increase the risk of blue baby syndrome. Hence, infant formula should not be prepared using well water. [5]

 2.Avoid nitrate-rich foods

Infants should not be fed homemade foods prepared from broccoli, beets, spinach, and carrots as these foods contain a high amount of nitrate that can increase the risk of blue baby syndrome. [6]

1. Use antibiotics carefully

Pregnant women should avoid using antibiotics unless advised by a physician. Some antibiotics, especially tetracycline, have been linked to an increased risk of blue baby syndrome in infants when used by a pregnant woman. [7]

 Conclusion

The prognosis of babies with bluish skin depends on the condition that causes it. Surgical treatment and other therapies can help to enhance blood flow to the vital organs including skin and restore the natural skin color.