The main symptoms of neonatal jaundice

The main symptom of neonatal jaundice is yellowing of the skin, sclera and whites of the eyes, which is caused by elevated bilirubin levels in the newborn. If jaundice is found within 24 hours after birth, or if the jaundice expands, deepens in color, or lasts for a long time, you need to seek medical attention immediately.

1 Common causes

Neonatal jaundice is mainly divided into two categories: physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice.

Physiological jaundice: Because the newborn's liver has a weak ability to metabolize bilirubin, bilirubin accumulates in the blood. It usually appears 2-3 days after birth and disappears in about 7-10 days.

Pathological jaundice: It may be caused by hemolytic diseases such as maternal-fetal blood type incompatibility, infectious diseases such as neonatal sepsis, bile duct obstruction, etc. It usually appears within 24 hours after birth and requires medical intervention.

2 Main symptoms

Mild jaundice: Slight yellowing of the skin and sclera, usually starting on the head and then possibly extending to the chest and extremities.

Severe jaundice: Jaundice extends to the extremities, and the skin color turns dark yellow or even orange-yellow, which may be accompanied by drowsiness, difficulty feeding, or abnormal crying.

Bilirubin encephalopathy kernicterus: In rare cases, excessive bilirubin can penetrate into the central nervous system and cause damage to the nervous system, such as abnormal muscle tone, slow reaction, convulsions, etc. This is a serious complication and requires immediate medical attention.

3. Coping and Treatment

Physiological jaundice:

Increase breastfeeding to promote the excretion of bilirubin through feces. It is ideal to maintain 8-12 feedings a day.

Watch for changes in jaundice; if it subsides significantly, usually no treatment is needed.

Phototherapy: Pathological jaundice or severe physiological jaundice can be treated with special wavelengths of blue light, which helps break down bilirubin so that it can be excreted through urine or feces.

Drug treatment: In some cases, phenobarbital can be used to help the liver metabolize it. The specific medication should be determined by the doctor based on the condition.

Blood transfusion or exchange transfusion therapy: If jaundice is severe or complicated by hemolysis, exchange transfusion therapy can be used to lower bilirubin levels.

Neonatal jaundice is a common problem, but its severity varies depending on the cause and duration of the jaundice. Parents need to closely observe changes in the skin color and feeding of the newborn, and seek medical attention as soon as possible if any abnormalities are found. Doctors can assess bilirubin levels through blood tests and take necessary interventions. Early treatment can usually significantly improve the prognosis.