How to Identify Gray Syndrome

Having a baby can be one of the most exciting times in a woman's life; however, if the baby gets Gray syndrome, it can be one of the most scariest time for the new mother. This article will help to identify Gray syndrome, a dangerous condition that occurs in newborns who are given the drug chloramphenicol. Chloramphenicol is a drug used to fight off bacterial affection. If a baby gets the drug, it can be very toxic and cause the reaction known as Gray syndrome. This reaction can be fatal.

Things You'll Need

• physician

Show More

Instructions

How to Identify Gray Syndrome

• 1

  Find out if the baby has been given the drug chloramphenicol. Babies do not have the special proteins in their body to break down this drug.

• 2

  See if the baby is eating correctly within two to nine days after the baby has been exposed to chloramphenicol. If a baby has Gray Syndrome, the baby will vomit, refuse to suck and produce loose green stools.

• 3

  Look at the baby. If the baby's skin is an ashen color instead of the baby's normal color, it may be a sign of Gray syndrome. Also, lift the baby's arms and legs. If the baby's arms and legs are limp, this could be another sign.

• 4

  Look at the babies lips and nails. If the baby has a blue coloration of the lips, tongue, finger nails or toenails, the infant may have Cyanois. Cyanosis is a symptom of Gray syndrome. It is caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood. The drug chloramphenicol has accumulated in the baby's blood stream causing this lack of oxygen.

• 5

  Notify a doctor any time that you feel the baby has Gray syndrome. The doctor should test the baby's blood pressure and body temperature. Babies with Gray syndrome have hypo-tension or low pressure. They may also have hypothermia or low body temperature. The doctor should also test the baby's heart. Eventually, Gray syndrome can cause cardiovascular collapse if not treated in time.