Baby Jaundice Affects Intelligence
Jaundice is a common condition in newborns. It is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. Normally, the liver removes bilirubin from the bloodstream and excretes it in the stool. However, in newborns, the liver is not yet fully developed and cannot remove bilirubin as efficiently. This can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream, which can cause jaundice.
Jaundice is usually not a serious condition and will go away on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, jaundice can be severe and can lead to complications, including kernicterus. Kernicterus is a condition that can cause damage to the brain and can lead to intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, and other serious problems.
How Jaundice Affects Intelligence
Kernicterus is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the brain. Bilirubin is toxic to brain cells, and can cause damage to the basal ganglia, which are a group of structures in the brain that are responsible for movement, coordination, and learning. Damage to the basal ganglia can lead to intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, and other serious problems.
The risk of kernicterus is highest in newborns who have severe jaundice. However, even mild jaundice can increase the risk of kernicterus in some cases. For example, newborns who are premature or who have other medical conditions are at an increased risk of kernicterus.
Treatment for Jaundice
The treatment for jaundice depends on the severity of the condition. In most cases, mild jaundice will go away on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, treatment may be necessary to prevent kernicterus.
Treatment for jaundice may include:
Phototherapy: Phototherapy is a treatment that uses ultraviolet light to break down bilirubin in the skin. This can help to reduce the levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream.
Exchange transfusion: In severe cases of jaundice, an exchange transfusion may be necessary. This is a procedure in which the baby's blood is replaced with donor blood. This can help to remove the bilirubin from the bloodstream and prevent kernicterus.
Prevention of Jaundice
There is no way to completely prevent jaundice, but there are some things that can be done to reduce the risk. These include:
Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can help to reduce the risk of jaundice by providing the baby with antibodies that can help to break down bilirubin.
Avoiding certain medications: Some medications can increase the risk of jaundice in newborns. Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Getting tested for Rh incompatibility: Rh incompatibility is a condition that can increase the risk of jaundice in newborns. If you are Rh-negative, your doctor will test you for Rh incompatibility during pregnancy.
If You Are Concerned About Jaundice
If you are concerned about jaundice in your newborn, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of jaundice can help to prevent kernicterus and other serious complications.
Symptoms of jaundice to look for in your newborn:
Yellow skin and eyes
Dark urine
Light-colored stools
Poor feeding
Lethargy
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
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