Caring for a baby boy with hemophilia

If your baby boy has hemophilia, the Indiana Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center (IHTC) is here to help your baby live a healthy life. Here are some plans to help you get started.

Call IHTC if you notice any of the following in your baby:

1. Symptoms of bleeding on the brain. These symptoms may include:
   - Not wanting to eat
   - Throwing up or vomiting that “shoots” out of the mouth
   - A swollen soft spot. Newborn babies have two soft spots, one at the top of the head and one at the back of the head. 
   - Not being able to wake your baby
   - Repeated jerking movements (seizures)
2. Bleeding from the belly button (umbilical site)
3. Bleeding from the penis (circumcision site)
4. A joint or muscle that appears swollen when compared to opposite part of body
5. Being fussy and not wanting to move a certain part of the body
6. Blood in mouth, nose, throw-up or poop.  A black poop may mean there is internal bleeding.
7. A bruise that grows bigger or has a lump underneath it
8. Swelling or firmness at site of a shot or a heel stick

Safety Tips:

• Always use safety straps when using a car seat, swing, or infant seat to prevent falls.
• Make sure anyone giving your baby their shots uses the smallest gauge needle available. They should apply pressure to the site of the shot for 3-5 minutes after the shot. You should then use an icepack to the area.
• Use a nail file instead of clippers to trim fingernails.
• If your baby needs a pain reliever or medication for a fever, talk to your baby’s doctor first. Then use Tylenol (acetaminophen).  Do not use ibuprofen or Motrin as these can increase bleeding.

Ongoing care:

• Schedule an appointment with the IHTC as soon as possible.
• Establish care with a pediatrician or a family doctor.
• Keep a dose of any IHTC prescribed special medicine at home.
• Call the IHTC if you need to take your baby to the emergency room.
• Ask the IHTC about providing education for extended family, caregivers or daycare.
• Contact Hemophilia of Indiana (HOII) 317-570-0039 or 1-800-241-2873  web site:  www.hoii.org
  - This is a good resource for family support and advocacy.