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1. Strabismus
What it is: A misalignment of the eyes -- one may seem to "wander." The eye muscles on one side may be weaker than on the other, there could be a disconnect between the eyes and the part of the brain that's responsible for focusing, or both. If strabismus isn't treated (with an eye patch over the stronger eye to give the weaker muscles a workout; surgery; glasses; or some combination), it can lead to amblyopia, or lazy eye, in which the weak eye stops working properly altogether.
Why it can be hard to catch: Your baby's eyes might appear straight during a checkup, so the doctor may not notice a problem. A newborn's eyes may wander, but by 3 to 6 months, they should be in sync most of the time.
How you can help: Check your baby's eyes once a week by shining a flashlight in them -- hold it 6 to 12 inches away and look for the dots of light to be in the same place in each eye. If they're not, have the doctor check her more closely.
2. Ear infection
What it is: An infection of the middle ear that's caused when fluid builds up, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. At least 70 percent of the time, ear infections are preceded by a cold. Young kids are especially susceptible to ear infections because their eustachian tubes, which allow fluids to drain, are so narrow.
Why it can be hard to catch: Some of the symptoms are the same as those of the common cold -- a stuffy nose, slight fever, and irritability, for instance. Often a child will pull or rub his ear if it hurts, but it might not hurt.
How you can help: This is where your detective skills can come in handy. Mothers will often say they can tell their baby is getting an ear infection when he's had a cold and doesn't want to lie down, or nurses differently (the pressure caused by fluid in the middle ear makes it too painful to be horizontal or swallow). Other signs you should watch for: yellow drainage from the inside corners of the eyes; frequent night waking; thick, mucus-y nasal secretions; increasing crankiness and irritability; blue circles under the eyes; droopy eyes; and that overall facial expression that means "I'm really feeling lousy!"
Also, moms commonly call the doctor when they're unsure if there's something more serious than a cold going on. If you're convinced there is, say so right away.
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