Causes of temperature in new borns

Temperature regulation in newborns is a critical process that helps them adapt to the outside world after birth. Here are some common causes of temperature fluctuations in newborns:

Causes of Hypothermia (Low Body Temperature):

  1. Premature birth: Newborns born prematurely may have a harder time regulating their body temperature due to their underdeveloped thermoregulatory system.
  2. Cold environment: Newborns are sensitive to cold temperatures, and exposure to cold environments can cause their body temperature to drop.
  3. Poor insulation: Newborns have a thin layer of fat and may not be able to retain heat well, making them more susceptible to hypothermia.
  4. Inadequate wrapping or covering: If newborns are not properly wrapped or covered, they may lose heat and develop hypothermia.
  5. Infection or sepsis: Infections or sepsis can cause a newborn's body temperature to drop.
  6. Congenital heart defects: Newborns with congenital heart defects may have difficulty regulating their body temperature due to poor circulation.

Causes of Hyperthermia (High Body Temperature):

  1. Overheating: Newborns can overheat if they are exposed to high temperatures, such as in a warm environment or with excessive wrapping.
  2. Infection or sepsis: Infections or sepsis can cause a newborn's body temperature to rise.
  3. Jaundice: Newborns with jaundice may have a higher body temperature due to the breakdown of red blood cells.
  4. Congenital heart defects: Newborns with congenital heart defects may have difficulty regulating their body temperature, leading to hyperthermia.
  5. Inadequate cooling measures: If newborns are not properly cooled, they may develop hyperthermia.
  6. Maternal fever: If the mother has a fever during childbirth, it can cause the newborn's body temperature to rise.

Other Factors that Can Affect Newborn Temperature:

  1. Birth asphyxia: Newborns who experience birth asphyxia may have difficulty regulating their body temperature.
  2. Respiratory distress: Newborns with respiratory distress may have a higher body temperature due to increased metabolic rate.
  3. Intraventricular hemorrhage: Newborns with intraventricular hemorrhage may have a higher body temperature due to increased metabolic rate.
  4. Maternal diabetes: Newborns of mothers with diabetes may have a higher body temperature due to increased insulin levels.

It's essential to monitor newborns' body temperature regularly to ensure they are within a healthy range (around 97.7°F to 99.5°F or 36.5°C to 37.5°C). If you have concerns about your newborn's temperature, consult with your healthcare provider.