We meet Dr. Aristotle Plato who completed his M.B.B.S. in Mohan Kumara Mangalam Medical College, Salem and his DCH in Stanely Medical College, Chennai. After a brief stint in U.K., he is pursuing his work in India as full time consultant in Lifeline hospital. His area of specialization is Pediatrics and Neonatology.

What is Neonatology?

Neonatology is the medical care of New born infants, especially the ill or pre-mature ones.

When does the first screening begin for a foetus?

All expectant mothers undergo Ante Natal ultra sound scanning to access the growth of foetus as well as an anomaly screening to detect Cardiac, Renal and Intestinal abnormalities.

When does the Neonatologist first visit the baby?

A Neonatologist usually visits the baby anytime between 6 to 48 hrs after the birth.

What are the examinations carried out?

The baby is accessed from head to toe. Cataracts, cleft palate, blocked nose, respiratory disturbances, blocked anus, hip dislocation, Down's syndrome if present, are generally identified. Apart from accessing the normal functioning of all organs, screening tests are performed to detect hypothyroidism, metabolic problem, phenylketonuria, sickle cell anemia.

What is the benefit of understanding the baby's health condition so early?

This will help us to monitor the baby and start necessary treatment early. For instance, hypothyroidism, if not treated early, can create severe retardation in the child's brain growth and development.

What is the common health problem in children?

Respiratory infections are most common. On an average, 5 - 10 cycles a year are normal in a child.

How can it be managed and prevented?

Wheezing can be very easily managed by the use of inhaled steroids. As micro quantities are required and there is no systemic absorption, the side effects are almost negligible. The allergens, which trigger a wheeze,like dust, smoke, dander of the pets, pollens etc should to be identified and avoided.

What is special about taking a child to a pediatrician instead of general physician?

The children are different from adults. A pediatrician will be able to chose the right medication and also administer the monitored and required dosages.

What would you advise the parents with infants?

A new born should be fed once every three hours. If the baby develops fever, stops drinking, the child is very sleepy, does not urinate for more than 6 hours, the child should be immediately taken to a pediatrician.