Normal Fontanelle Vs Sunken Fontanelle

Sunken fontanelle is a common problem in newborns.

Normal fontanelle vs sunken fontanelle. At birth an infant has six fontanels. They provide the skull with the flexibility needed to pass through the birth canal. The anterior fontanel is the largest and most important for.

These are more commonly known as soft spots. Signs of a sunken fontanelle or sunken soft spot. What is a sunken fontanel.

Sunken fontanelle happens when the soft spot on the baby s head is deep set than that is normal. The fontanelle at the top of the head anterior fontanelle most often closes within 7 to 19 months. The fontanelles should have closed by 18 months of age.

A normal fontanelle is flat or very slightly sunken and can easily be felt with the fingertips. Normal fontanelle vs sunken fontanelle. A baby is born with several fontanels.

But if the soft spot is significantly sunken it s usually a sign that your baby is dehydrated and needs to be given fluids immediately. Many new mothers are likely to panic when they feel it bulging when the baby cries as you can see below this is normal. If baby s fontanelle on the top of his head isn t flat but rather dips inward it means his fontanelle is sunken.

The fontanelles should feel firm and should curve inward slightly to the touch.