What is Hair Tourniquet?
What should I do if this occurs?
This is where fibres and hairs become wrapped around baby’s fingers and toes, possibly cutting off circulation to the area. The tip of the finger/toe will be a bright red/purple colour as it is lacking blood flow to the area. Underneath, a long, thin piece of hair/material will be completely wrapped around it.
How does this happen?
Fibres break off from:
- Soft baby towels
- Baby socks
- Tumble Drying baby clothes
- Postpartum Hair Loss (Mother)
What are signs that baby has this?
- If baby is uncontrollably crying and you have ran through general checklist (hunger, nappy, wind etc) and still baby is screaming.
- One can physically see a tight mark around a finger/toe.
- Finger/toe may be red or swollen.
- It can also occur in and around the penis of baby boys. Make sure to do an extra check at nappy changing times.
What should I do if this occurs?
Holding baby as still as possible, using a tweezers and nail scissors, carefully attempt to cut the fibres as close to the skin as possible. Make sure to reassure baby with lots of cuddles. Reassess the finger/toe to make sure all fibres have been removed and that skin goes back to normal colour. If you have any concern about baby’s wellbeing, go see medical advice as soon as possible.
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