Question
My baby has been unable to cry normally for a week after birth. Does this affect development, and what treatment methods are available?
Answer
A newborn should not have a blue face or be unable to make a sound when crying. This may indicate congenital deficiencies or incomplete cardiorespiratory function. It is recommended to seek medical attention immediately to avoid letting the baby cry to prevent brain hypoxia that could affect development. If the baby experienced asphyxia at birth and currently has a blue face, purple lips, and is unable to cry, a prompt MRI of the head should be conducted to rule out hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and a cardiac Doppler ultrasound should be performed to rule out heart disease.