Will neonatal jaundice recur?

Neonatal jaundice may recur, but in most cases it is a short-lived physiological phenomenon. Neonatal jaundice usually occurs between the second and fourth days after birth. Since the liver function of the newborn is not yet fully mature, it cannot effectively process bilirubin in the body, which causes it to accumulate in the blood. Physiological jaundice usually disappears on its own within one to two weeks without the need for special treatment. However, pathological jaundice may cause recurring episodes and requires prompt medical attention for diagnosis and treatment. The causes of pathological jaundice include blood type incompatibility, erythropoiesis disorders, or infection.

Neonatal jaundice is divided into physiological and pathological. Physiological jaundice is common in premature infants and breastfed newborns. It is caused by insufficient metabolic capacity and usually does not require intervention. Breast milk jaundice sometimes appears on the seventh day after birth and may last longer. Pathological jaundice requires vigilance and may be caused by genetic factors such as hemolytic jaundice (blood type incompatibility), environmental factors such as infection, or physiological problems such as biliary atresia. This type of jaundice is often accompanied by a rapid increase in blood bilirubin levels, and the infant may experience symptoms such as drowsiness and difficulty eating. It is key to identify pathological jaundice in a timely manner and take appropriate measures according to the cause. If necessary, phototherapy can be used to promote bilirubin degradation. Severe cases require blood transfusion or drug intervention, such as the use of immunoglobulin.

Neonatal jaundice is divided into physiological and pathological. Physiological jaundice is common in premature infants and breastfed newborns. It is caused by insufficient metabolic capacity and usually does not require intervention. Breast milk jaundice sometimes appears on the seventh day after birth and may last longer. Pathological jaundice requires vigilance and may be caused by genetic factors such as hemolytic jaundice (blood type incompatibility), environmental factors such as infection, or physiological problems such as biliary atresia. This type of jaundice is often accompanied by a rapid increase in blood bilirubin levels, and the infant may experience symptoms such as drowsiness and difficulty eating. It is key to identify pathological jaundice in a timely manner and take appropriate measures according to the cause. If necessary, phototherapy can be used to promote bilirubin degradation. Severe cases require blood transfusion or drug intervention, such as the use of immunoglobulin.

To prevent recurrent neonatal jaundice, it is important to manage the health of mothers and infants during pregnancy, especially for pregnant women with a family history of jaundice or a history of adverse pregnancy. After delivery, observe changes in the baby's skin and whites of the eyes and monitor jaundice regularly. If abnormal indicators are found, consult a pediatrician immediately. A reasonable combination of breast milk and formula during feeding can prevent jaundice symptoms caused by malnutrition, and keeping the baby in adequate light can also help the metabolism of bilirubin. Parents should be alert to signs of abnormal behavior in their babies and seek medical attention in time to ensure the healthy growth of newborns.