Health Tip: Signs That Baby is in Pain

Unhappy facial expressions are a common reaction

(HealthDay News) -- Babies aren't able to communicate verbally, but they can let you know when they're in pain.

The University of Michigan Health System says parents should be on the lookout for these warning signs of infant pain:

Facial expressions, including grimacing, furrowing the brow, squeezing eyes shut, opening the mouth or having deep lines form around the nose.
A high-pitched, insistent cry that lasts longer than usual, although some very sick babies may be too weak to cry at all.
Stiffness throughout the body, or flailing and squirming. Some very sick or premature babies may appear limp.
Behaving irritably and not responding to comforting or feeding.
Not eating or sleeping.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: May 24, 2012