n addition to the bluish color of the skin, other symptoms of blue baby syndrome include:

  • irritability
  • lethargy
  • feeding issues
  • inability to gain weight
  • developmental issues
  • rapid heartbeat or breathing
  • clubbed (or rounded) fingers and toes the blood

  Treatment:

Treatment depends on the cause of the blue baby syndrome. If the condition is produced by a congenital heart defect, your baby will most likely need surgery at some point. Medication may be recommended as well. These recommendations are based on the severity of the defect. Babies with methemoglobinemia can reverse the condition by taking a drug called methylene blue, which can provide oxygen to the blood. This drug needs a prescription and is usually delivered via a needle inserted into a vein.

Prevention

  • Don’t use well water.
  • Limit nitrate-rich foods.
  • Avoid illegal drugs, smoking, alcohol, and some medications during pregnancy.