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Preparing for Preemies

Making the Move From Hospital to Home

By Amy E. Tracy

Research shows that babies born nine or more weeks before they're due or with birth weights at 3 pounds or less are more likely to develop an eye disease called retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Caused by an abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina, ROP can lead to mild or severe eye or vision problems.

In most cases, ROP is diagnosed within six weeks of birth during routine hospital exams. According to Dr. Nieca Caltrider, a pediatric ophthalmologist in Colorado Springs, Colo., most ROP resolves by itself or stops with treatment.

If ROP was diagnosed in the hospital, plan for ongoing follow-up exams with a pediatric ophthalmologist until the condition is resolved. If ROP progresses and the blood vessels move outside of the retina, surgical treatment may be necessary.

Evaluations for potential problems caused by ROP, such as nearsightedness and amblyopia (lazy eye), should also be a part of routine checkups.

Most hospitals screen an infant's hearing before discharge; however, if your babies weren't tested, request a hearing evaluation immediately. Babies born early are at risk for hearing loss.

Also, be on the lookout for ear infections that could cause hearing loss. Signs include fussiness, rubbing or pulling the ears, drainage from the ears, trouble sucking, poor appetite, fever and temporary hearing loss. Preemies who were on a ventilator, who have frequent colds and who have a family history of ear infections are at greater risk.

If a hearing loss is diagnosed, your baby will most likely see a pediatric audiologist. Your child's speech and language development should also be monitored.

If a loss has not been detected, watch for signs of hearing difficulties (not responsive to sounds, delay in babbling, starts cooing or babbling and then stops), and report any concerns to your doctor.

Want to see more?

• Ahead of Schedule: What to Expect When Your Multiples Are Premature
• Are You Prepared for a Preemie? A Guide to Preterm Babies
• Power Dressing for Preemies: Finding Practical and Fun Fashions
• Talk about it!

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