Pediatricians, for the most part, advise using sunscreen whenever a baby is in the sun. But dermatologists say to avoid sunscreen on infants under 1 year old . Duke pediatric dermatologist Dr. Neil Prose says the confusion stems from yet-unproven concern over babies' skin, which is thinner, more sensitive to allergens and more plentiful in ratio to their body weight than adults' skin. Theoretically, the chemicals in sunscreen could, if absorbed, travel via the bloodstream to the developing brain, he said. While it sounds contradictory, the reason is simple.
Ear infections result in fluid build-up behind the eardrum, which prevents the ear drum from moving.
As the plane descends, the air pressure pushes the ear drum in even further, a sensation that's responsible for the pain people often experience when flying. Walter recommends giving the child a decongestant to relieve the pressure of the cold and hence reduce the chance of pain upon descent. For further information or to set up interviews, call the Duke Med News Office at 919.684.4148.