1. Ask Questions About Baby's Medications
Having a sick infant can be very stressful. It can be hard to focus on her treatments when you're so worried about your child, but it's crucial to stay informed. Ask questions about the medications your baby is being given and even ask the medical staff to write them down for you if necessary. Since Gray Syndrome, the potentially fatal reaction to the antibiotic chloramphenicol, can begin anywhere between 2 and 9 days after treatment, having a medication list can make the difference between identifying the reaction immediately and wasting precious time trying to make the connection.
2. Identify Changes in Gastrointestinal Habits
Identify Gray Syndrome by recognizing changes in your baby's feeding and bowel habits. Among other symptoms, if your baby is suffering from Gray Syndrome he will often lose interest in feeding, either by refusing to or being unable to suck at a bottle or the breast. Despite his disinterest in feeding, he may continue to pass loose, greenish stool and vomit bile.
3. Identify Circulatory and Respiratory Changes
Gray Syndrome's hallmark signs are those which give rise to its unusual name. Grayish-tinged skin and blue lips and fingernail beds (also known as cyanoisis) can help to identify the reaction to the toxic build-up of chloramphenicol in your baby's blood. Because your baby lacks the enzymes to help her break down and excrete the drug, her blood can't circulate enough oxygen. If she's ashen, having trouble breathing, feels cold to the touch and her heartbeat feels slower than normal, these signs can indicate Gray Syndrome. Call her doctor immediately to discuss treatment options.
