How to Treat High Jaundice in Babies After Birth
Neonatal jaundice is a common condition that affects newborns. It is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells break down. Jaundice can cause the baby's skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. In most cases, neonatal jaundice is harmless and will go away on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, high jaundice can lead to serious health problems, such as kernicterus.
What Causes High Jaundice in Babies?
Newborns have higher levels of bilirubin than ***s because their livers are not fully developed. This can make it difficult for them to clear bilirubin from their bodies. Other factors that can contribute to high jaundice in babies include:
Premature birth
Low birth weight
Blood type incompatibility between the mother and baby
Certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or infections
Symptoms of High Jaundice in Babies
The most common symptom of high jaundice is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Other symptoms can include:
Dark yellow urine
Pale stools
Poor feeding
Lethargy
Irritability
How to Treat High Jaundice in Babies
The treatment for high jaundice depends on the severity of the condition. In most cases, mild jaundice will go away on its own within a few weeks. However, if the jaundice is severe, treatment may be necessary to prevent kernicterus.
Treatment options for high jaundice include:
Phototherapy: This involves exposing the baby to a special type of light that helps to break down bilirubin.
Exchange transfusion: This is a procedure in which the baby's blood is replaced with donor blood.
How to Prevent High Jaundice in Babies
There is no sure way to prevent high jaundice in babies, but there are some things that can be done to reduce the risk, such as:
Breastfeeding the baby frequently: Breast milk contains factors that help to break down bilirubin.
Keeping the baby hydrated: Dehydration can worsen jaundice.
Avoiding certain medications: Some medications can increase bilirubin levels.
When to Call the Doctor
If you are concerned about your baby's jaundice, it is important to call your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious health problems.
Additional Information
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) has more information about neonatal jaundice. You can visit their website at https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/jaundice/conditioninfo/pages/default.aspx.
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