What causes jaundice in newborns?

Neonatal jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by the accumulation of bilirubin in the body. It is common 2-3 days after birth. Most cases are physiological jaundice, while a few are pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice usually does not require special treatment, but pathological jaundice requires prompt medical attention.

1. Causes of physiological jaundice

The liver function of newborns is not fully developed, and the ability to metabolize bilirubin is weak, which leads to the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. The life span of newborn red blood cells is short, and a large amount of bilirubin is produced after decomposition, further aggravating jaundice.

2. Causes of pathological jaundice

Pathological jaundice may be related to factors such as heredity, infection, blood type incompatibility such as ABO hemolysis or Rh hemolysis, biliary atresia, etc. For example, blood type incompatibility between mother and baby may lead to massive destruction of red blood cells and a sharp increase in bilirubin levels.

3. Treatment of physiological jaundice

Physiological jaundice usually disappears on its own within 1-2 weeks. Parents can promote bilirubin excretion by increasing the frequency of feeding and letting the newborn get more sun exposure but avoid direct sunlight.

4. Treatment of pathological jaundice

Pathological jaundice requires prompt medical attention. Treatments include:

Phototherapy: Blue light is used to decompose bilirubin and promote its excretion.

Exchange transfusion therapy: suitable for severe hemolytic jaundice, which can reduce bilirubin levels through transfusion.

Drug treatment: such as using phenobarbital to promote liver metabolic function.

Neonatal jaundice is a common phenomenon, but it is necessary to distinguish between physiological and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice usually does not require intervention, but pathological jaundice requires prompt medical attention. Parents should closely observe changes in the skin color of newborns and seek medical advice when necessary to ensure the healthy growth of their babies.