What is a common sign of neonatal withdrawal syndrome after birth?

Excessive crying is a common sign of neonatal withdrawal syndrome after birth. This syndrome occurs when a newborn is exposed to certain substances in utero, such as opioids, alcohol, or other drugs, and then experiences withdrawal symptoms after birth. One of the hallmark signs of this syndrome is irritability, which manifests as excessive crying.

Newborns with withdrawal may become hypersensitive to stimuli and can display extreme emotional and physical responses, leading to prolonged periods of crying and difficulty being soothed. This crying can be significantly louder and more intense than what is typical for a newborn, reflecting their distress from the withdrawal process.

In contrast, lethargy, jaundice, and low birth weight can be associated with various other neonatal conditions but are not specific indicators of withdrawal syndrome. Lethargy is often seen in depressed neonates or those with metabolic disturbances, jaundice relates to liver function and bilirubin metabolism issues, while low birth weight can stem from a variety of prenatal factors unrelated to withdrawal. Thus, excessive crying specifically highlights the neurological and physiological challenges faced by infants undergoing withdrawal.