Symptoms of neonatal jaundice

Neonatal jaundice is manifested by yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, which is usually caused by abnormal bilirubin metabolism. Mild jaundice can be relieved by increasing the frequency of feeding and light therapy, but severe cases require medical attention. Neonatal jaundice is a common physiological phenomenon in the neonatal period, mainly caused by excessive bilirubin production, insufficient liver metabolism or excretion disorders. Bilirubin is a product of the decomposition of red blood cells. Newborn red blood cells have a short lifespan and decompose quickly, while liver function is not fully developed and cannot process bilirubin in time, causing it to accumulate in the body and cause jaundice.

1. Excessive production of bilirubin: Newborns have a large number of red blood cells and a short lifespan. After decomposition, a large amount of bilirubin is produced, which exceeds the liver's processing capacity.

2. Insufficient liver metabolic capacity: The liver function of newborns is not yet mature, and the activity of bilirubin conjugating enzyme is low, which cannot effectively convert bilirubin into an excretable form.

3. Excretion disorders: Incomplete development of the biliary system or the presence of congenital biliary atresia and other diseases result in the inability of bilirubin to be excreted smoothly.

Mild jaundice usually does not require special treatment. Bilirubin excretion can be promoted by increasing the frequency of feeding, or blue light irradiation therapy can be used to accelerate the decomposition of bilirubin. Severe jaundice requires prompt medical treatment. The doctor may take medication according to the situation, such as using phenobarbital to promote liver enzyme activity, or performing blood transfusion therapy to quickly reduce bilirubin levels. Parents should closely observe changes in neonatal jaundice. If jaundice continues to worsen or is accompanied by other abnormal symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately. Although neonatal jaundice is common, it may cause bilirubin encephalopathy in severe cases, which requires attention and appropriate measures.