The dangers of neonatal jaundice

Neonatal jaundice is usually caused by increased bilirubin levels in the body, which leads to yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. In most cases, it is physiological jaundice and does not cause much harm to health. However, if the jaundice is severe or lasts for a long time, it may develop into pathological jaundice, leading to bilirubin encephalopathy (kernicterus), causing permanent damage to the brain.

Physiological jaundice usually begins 2 to 3 days after birth and disappears naturally within 1 to 2 weeks. It is common in premature infants or breastfed newborns. This situation generally does not require special treatment, only observation and regular examination of bilirubin levels, but severe pathological jaundice should pay attention to potential major disease factors, such as hemolytic disease, liver dysfunction or biliary obstruction. It may be caused by maternal and fetal blood type incompatibility, genetic metabolic abnormalities, and pathological factors such as premature birth and infection. Such conditions must be controlled through effective treatment. For example, commonly used light therapy can help break down excess bilirubin; in more severe cases, exchange transfusion therapy and drug therapy may be required, especially drugs targeting specific causes, such as drugs that block bilirubin production or accelerate excretion.

Physiological jaundice usually begins 2 to 3 days after birth and disappears naturally within 1 to 2 weeks. It is common in premature infants or breastfed newborns. This situation generally does not require special treatment, only observation and regular examination of bilirubin levels, but severe pathological jaundice should pay attention to potential major disease factors, such as hemolytic disease, liver dysfunction or biliary obstruction. It may be caused by maternal and fetal blood type incompatibility, genetic metabolic abnormalities, and pathological factors such as premature birth and infection. Such conditions must be controlled through effective treatment. For example, commonly used light therapy can help break down excess bilirubin; in more severe cases, exchange transfusion therapy and drug therapy may be required, especially drugs targeting specific causes, such as drugs that block bilirubin production or accelerate excretion.

To reduce the risk of pathological jaundice in newborns, parents should pay attention to changes in the baby's skin and eye color and check bilirubin levels regularly. For high-risk infants, such as premature infants, more frequent health monitoring is required. When an infant has persistent or worsening jaundice, drowsiness, feeding difficulties, or abnormal crying, he or she should seek medical attention in time. At the same time, breastfeeding mothers need to ensure adequate intake to reduce the risk of jaundice. For premature infants or other infants at higher risks, doctors may recommend phototherapy in the hospital or at home. These measures can effectively reduce the chance of serious complications caused by jaundice.