When is the heel prick test performed

Your baby will then be referred for further tests. Why we screen babies by heel prick. Read our cookies policy to find out more about cookies and how we use them. Heel prick screening for newborn babies - about. The heel prick is free and Related topic Why we screen babies by heel prick Related Content. Results for heel prick screening Getting your baby's heel prick results What happens to your baby's heel prick blood sample See more articles Back to top.

Welcome to the Quit smoking Live Chat. This inherited condition affects the digestion and lungs. Babies with cystic fibrosis may not gain weight well and are prone to chest infections.

Babies with the condition can be treated early with a high-energy diet, medicines and physiotherapy. Although children with cystic fibrosis may still become very ill, early treatment can help them live longer, healthier lives.

Read more about cystic fibrosis. UK also has a leaflet for parents whose baby has suspected cystic fibrosis. About 1 in every 2, to 3, babies born in the UK has congenital hypothyroidism. Babies with congenital hypothyroidism don't have enough of the hormone thyroxine. Without thyroxine, babies don't grow properly and can develop learning disabilities. Babies who have the condition can be treated early with thyroxine tablets, and this allows them to develop normally.

The British Thyroid Foundation has more information about congenital hypothyroidism. It's important to let your healthcare professional know if you have a family history of a metabolic disease a disease that affects your metabolism.

The other conditions are rarer, occurring in 1 in , to , babies. Without treatment, babies with inherited metabolic diseases can become suddenly and seriously ill. The diseases all have different symptoms. Depending on which one affects your baby, the condition may be life threatening or cause severe developmental problems.

They can all be treated with a carefully managed diet and, in some cases, medicines as well. In some areas of England, screening for a condition called severe combined immunodeficiency SCID is also being offered as part of the newborn blood spot test. SCID causes problems with the immune system. Are you protected against flu? Further reading and references. Join the discussion on the forums. Health Tools Feeling unwell? Assess your symptoms online with our free symptom checker.

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