How to Judge Physiological and Pathological Jaundice
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Physiological Jaundice
Physiological jaundice is a common condition in newborns that causes their skin and eyes to turn yellow. It is caused by a build-up of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down.
Physiological jaundice usually appears within 2-3 days after birth and peaks at 4-5 days. It typically resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks.
Causes of Physiological Jaundice
Increased production of bilirubin: Newborns have higher levels of bilirubin than ***s because their livers are not fully developed and cannot process bilirubin as quickly.
Decreased clearance of bilirubin: Newborns have a smaller bile duct system than ***s, which can make it difficult for bilirubin to be excreted in the bile.
Increased enterohepatic circulation: Bilirubin is reabsorbed in the intestines and returned to the liver through the bloodstream. This process is known as enterohepatic circulation. In newborns, the enterohepatic circulation is more efficient, which can lead to increased levels of bilirubin in the blood.
Symptoms of Physiological Jaundice
Yellow skin and eyes
Yellow or orange urine
Light-colored stools
Treatment of Physiological Jaundice
Most cases of physiological jaundice do not require treatment. However, if the jaundice is severe or does not resolve on its own, treatment may be necessary. Treatment options include:
Phototherapy: Phototherapy uses light to break down bilirubin into smaller molecules that can be more easily excreted.
Exchange transfusion: In severe cases, an exchange transfusion may be necessary. This procedure involves removing some of the baby's blood and replacing it with donor blood.
Pathological Jaundice
Pathological jaundice is a condition in which the skin and eyes turn yellow due to an underlying medical condition. It can occur at any age, but it is most common in newborns.
Causes of Pathological Jaundice
Liver disease: Liver disease can prevent the liver from processing bilirubin, which leads to a build-up of bilirubin in the blood.
Biliary atresia: Biliary atresia is a rare condition in which the bile ducts are blocked or absent. This can prevent bilirubin from being excreted in the bile.
Hemolytic anemia: Hemolytic anemia is a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed prematurely. This can lead to an increased production of bilirubin.
Sepsis: Sepsis is a life-threatening infection that can cause the liver to stop functioning properly. This can lead to a build-up of bilirubin in the blood.
Symptoms of Pathological Jaundice
Yellow skin and eyes
Yellow or orange urine
Light-colored stools
Dark urine
Fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Treatment of Pathological Jaundice
The treatment of pathological jaundice depends on the underlying cause. Treatment options may include:
Treatment of the underlying medical condition
Phototherapy
Exchange transfusion
Liver transplant
How to Judge Physiological and Pathological Jaundice
The following factors can help distinguish between physiological and pathological jaundice:
Onset: Physiological jaundice usually appears within 2-3 days after birth, while pathological jaundice may appear at any age.
Duration: Physiological jaundice typically resolves within 1-2 weeks, while pathological jaundice may persist or worsen.
Symptoms: Physiological jaundice is usually asymptomatic, while pathological jaundice may cause symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Bilirubin levels: Bilirubin levels are typically higher in pathological jaundice than in physiological jaundice.
If you are concerned about your baby's jaundice, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of pathological jaundice is important to prevent serious complications.
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