How can jaundice in newborns be treated naturally at home. What are the most effective natural remedies for reducing bilirubin levels in babies. Which foods and supplements can help alleviate jaundice symptoms in infants.

Understanding Jaundice in Newborns: Causes and Symptoms

Jaundice is a common condition affecting many newborns, especially those born prematurely. It occurs when there’s an excess of bilirubin in the blood, often due to the baby’s liver not functioning at full capacity yet. While usually harmless and self-resolving, it’s essential to monitor and treat jaundice to prevent potential complications.

Common symptoms of jaundice in newborns include:

• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Lethargy
• Difficulty feeding

If you notice these signs in your baby, consult your pediatrician promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Frequent Breastfeeding: A Natural Approach to Jaundice Treatment

One of the most effective natural treatments for jaundice in newborns is frequent breastfeeding. This approach helps in multiple ways:

• Enhances liver function
• Improves blood cell efficiency
• Helps flush out excess bilirubin

Colostrum, the first milk produced by mothers, is particularly nutrient-dense and beneficial for treating jaundice. However, it can be difficult for some babies to digest. In such cases, feeding more frequently or supplementing with formula can be helpful.

How often should you breastfeed a jaundiced baby?

Aim to feed your baby every 2-3 hours, or 8-12 times a day. This frequent feeding schedule helps ensure your baby is getting enough milk to flush out bilirubin and stay hydrated.

The Power of Sunlight: Vitamin D and Jaundice Treatment

Sunlight exposure is a time-tested method for treating jaundice in newborns. It works by helping the body break down bilirubin more efficiently. Here’s how to use this natural remedy safely:

1. Place your baby near a sunny window
2. Remove clothing except for the diaper
3. Allow sun exposure for short periods (5-10 minutes) several times a day
4. Never leave your baby in direct sunlight to prevent sunburn

In addition to sunlight, breast milk is an excellent source of Vitamin D, containing up to 6400 IU per serving. Regular breastfeeding can significantly boost your baby’s Vitamin D levels and help reduce jaundice symptoms.

Probiotics: Boosting Gut Health to Combat Jaundice

Research has shown that probiotics can be a safe and effective treatment for jaundice in newborns. These beneficial bacteria help in several ways:

• Decrease bilirubin levels
• Improve overall gut health
• Enhance immunity against bacterial infections

Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt can be introduced to your baby’s diet under the guidance of a pediatrician. For breastfed babies, mothers can consume probiotic foods to pass the benefits through breast milk.

When can you start giving probiotics to a newborn?

Most pediatricians recommend waiting until a baby is at least 6 months old before introducing probiotics directly. However, for jaundiced newborns, your doctor may recommend probiotic drops specifically designed for infants. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

Magnesium: A Mineral Ally in Jaundice Treatment

Magnesium has shown promise in treating jaundice in newborns. A study by the Natural Health Research Institute found that administering magnesium to infants for about 6 weeks resulted in a significant reduction of bilirubin accumulation in blood cells.

Here are some key points about using magnesium for jaundice treatment:

• Consult your pediatrician before starting magnesium supplementation
• The recommended dosage should not exceed 250mg per day
• Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers can also increase their magnesium intake to help prevent jaundice in newborns

Which foods are rich in magnesium?

For breastfeeding mothers, incorporating magnesium-rich foods into their diet can be beneficial. Some good sources include:

• Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale)
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds)
• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Dark chocolate

Barley Seed Flour: An Ancient Remedy for Modern Times

Barley seed flour is a traditional remedy that has been used for centuries to treat jaundice in newborns. Its effectiveness lies in its high antioxidant content, which helps improve liver function and regulate bilirubin levels.

To use barley seed flour for jaundice treatment:

1. Mix a small amount of barley seed flour with water to create a paste
2. Apply the paste gently to your baby’s skin
3. Expose the treated areas to mild sunlight for short periods
4. Rinse off the paste after exposure

This method combines the benefits of barley’s antioxidants with the bilirubin-reducing effects of sunlight, creating a potent natural treatment for jaundice.

Is barley seed flour safe for all newborns?

While generally safe, it’s crucial to perform a patch test before applying barley seed flour to your baby’s skin. Apply a small amount to a small area and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions. Always consult with your pediatrician before trying new treatments.

The Healing Touch: Massage Therapy for Jaundiced Newborns

Gentle massage can be a soothing and effective way to help alleviate jaundice symptoms in newborns. Regular massage offers several benefits:

• Improves bowel movements
• Enhances circulation
• Reduces entero-hepatic circulation
• Promotes relaxation and better sleep

To incorporate massage into your baby’s jaundice treatment routine:

1. Choose a warm, quiet time of day
2. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic oil
3. Start with light strokes on the belly, moving in a clockwise direction
4. Gently massage the limbs, back, and chest
5. Pay special attention to the liver area (right side of the abdomen)

How often should you massage a jaundiced baby?

A daily massage routine can be beneficial. Aim for a gentle 10-15 minute massage each morning. However, always be mindful of your baby’s comfort and stop if they show signs of distress.

Supplementation: Supporting Your Baby’s Recovery

In some cases, your pediatrician may recommend supplements to help treat jaundice in your newborn. These can include:

• Vitamin supplements (particularly Vitamin D)
• Iron supplements
• Special formulas designed to support liver function

It’s crucial to note that supplements should only be given under strict medical supervision. Never administer any supplement to your newborn without consulting your healthcare provider first.

What are the risks of over-supplementation in newborns?

While supplements can be beneficial, excessive amounts can pose risks to your baby’s health. Potential dangers include:

• Vitamin toxicity
• Digestive issues
• Interference with the absorption of other essential nutrients

This is why it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations closely and never self-prescribe supplements for your newborn.

Monitoring and Follow-up: Ensuring Effective Jaundice Treatment

While natural remedies can be effective in treating jaundice, it’s essential to monitor your baby’s condition closely and maintain regular check-ups with your pediatrician. Here are some key points to remember:

• Keep track of your baby’s feeding patterns and diaper output
• Monitor the color of your baby’s skin and eyes regularly
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
• Report any worsening symptoms or concerns to your doctor immediately

When should you seek immediate medical attention for jaundice?

While most cases of newborn jaundice are mild and resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

• High-pitched crying
• Fever
• Poor feeding for multiple feedings in a row
• Listlessness or difficulty waking
• Yellowing that spreads to the arms, legs, or abdomen

If you observe any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Combining Natural Remedies: A Holistic Approach to Jaundice Treatment

While each of the natural remedies discussed can be effective on its own, combining multiple approaches often yields the best results. Here’s an example of a comprehensive natural treatment plan for newborn jaundice:

1. Frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding every 2-3 hours
2. Short periods of supervised sunlight exposure 2-3 times daily
3. Gentle daily massage with a focus on the abdominal area
4. Application of barley seed flour paste before sunlight exposure (if approved by your pediatrician)
5. Maternal consumption of probiotic and magnesium-rich foods
6. Supplementation as recommended by your healthcare provider

Remember, the key to effective jaundice treatment is consistency and close monitoring. Always work in partnership with your healthcare provider to ensure the best care for your newborn.

How long does it typically take for jaundice to resolve with natural treatments?

The duration of jaundice can vary significantly from one baby to another. With consistent natural treatments and proper medical supervision, many cases of mild to moderate jaundice resolve within 1-2 weeks. However, some babies may take longer to recover fully. Regular check-ups with your pediatrician will help track your baby’s progress and determine if additional interventions are necessary.

Preventing Jaundice in Future Pregnancies: Proactive Measures

If you’ve had a baby with jaundice, you might be concerned about the risk in future pregnancies. While not all cases of jaundice are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Ensure optimal nutrition during pregnancy
• Manage any underlying health conditions
• Attend all prenatal check-ups
• Consider delayed cord clamping at birth
• Plan for early and frequent breastfeeding

Discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider can help you develop a personalized plan to minimize the risk of jaundice in future pregnancies.

Can jaundice in one baby increase the risk for siblings?

While having one baby with jaundice doesn’t necessarily mean all your children will develop it, there can be an increased risk in certain situations. Factors that may increase the likelihood of jaundice in siblings include:

• Genetic factors affecting bilirubin metabolism
• Blood type incompatibilities between mother and baby
• Certain ethnic backgrounds (e.g., East Asian descent)

Discussing your family history with your healthcare provider can help identify any potential increased risks and allow for proactive management in future pregnancies.

The Role of Traditional Medicine in Jaundice Treatment

While modern medicine offers effective treatments for newborn jaundice, traditional healing practices from various cultures can complement these approaches. Some traditional remedies that have shown promise include:

• Chinese herbal medicine
• Ayurvedic treatments
• Traditional African remedies

It’s important to note that while these traditional approaches can be beneficial, they should always be used under the guidance of both a qualified traditional practitioner and your pediatrician to ensure safety and efficacy.

How do traditional and modern approaches to jaundice treatment differ?

The main differences between traditional and modern approaches to treating newborn jaundice lie in their focus and methodology:

• Modern medicine often focuses on direct bilirubin reduction through phototherapy or medication
• Traditional approaches typically aim to support overall liver health and natural detoxification processes
• Modern treatments often provide faster results but may have side effects
• Traditional remedies may work more slowly but often have fewer side effects

Many healthcare providers now recognize the value of integrating both approaches for optimal patient care. Always discuss any traditional remedies you’re considering with your pediatrician to ensure they’re safe and compatible with your baby’s overall treatment plan.

The Importance of Emotional Support During Jaundice Treatment

Dealing with a newborn’s health issues can be stressful for parents. It’s crucial to remember that your emotional well-being plays a significant role in your baby’s recovery. Here are some tips for maintaining emotional health while caring for a jaundiced newborn:

• Seek support from family and friends
• Join support groups for parents of jaundiced babies
• Practice self-care and stress-reduction techniques
• Communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns
• Remember that most cases of newborn jaundice resolve completely with proper care

How can partners support mothers of jaundiced newborns?

Partners play a crucial role in supporting mothers during this challenging time. Here are some ways partners can help:

• Assist with feeding, especially during night-time sessions
• Take on household responsibilities to allow the mother more rest
• Attend medical appointments to provide emotional support and help remember important information
• Educate themselves about jaundice to better understand the situation
• Provide reassurance and celebrate small improvements in the baby’s condition

Remember, caring for a jaundiced newborn is a team effort. Working together can significantly reduce stress and improve outcomes for both the baby and the parents.

7 Natural Treatment Options For Jaundice In Newborn Babies

Newborn babies are very sensitive and are connected to a lot of problems in the initial few months because of the new environment they need to survive in. Among many diseases or health issues jaundice is one of the commonly occurring problem that newborns face. This is caused by poor functioning bladder and liver, it occurs more to premature babies than mature babies. Jaundice can be due to some infection, or because of problems in digestion, liver function, internal bleeding or having incompatibility with mother’s milk. Such small babies need to be given any treatment in a very careful manner; therefore natural treatments for jaundice in newborns are also precise and need to be given very carefully.

How to know your baby has jaundice?

Well, there are few symptoms that become evident to help determine that those symptoms could be because of jaundice. This can include the following-

• Dark urination
• Lethargy
• Pale stools
• Having trouble with feeding or sucking milk
• Skin getting yellowish
• Whites of eyes become little pale yellow

Natural Treatments for Jaundice in Newborns

1. Feeding your baby frequently

Jaundice is majorly caused because of dysfunction in the liver process. Breastfeeding your baby frequently can reduce the symptoms of jaundice. This is because it enhances the process of liver functions which result in blood cells to function more efficiently. Colostrums is actually very nutrient dense that aids in treating jaundice but at the same time it is not very easy to digest. It is better to feed the baby frequently or use formula in case baby is not able to take mother’s milk. This will help in flushing down excess of bilirubin from her system.

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D can be given by many sources however, the best way to provide vitamin D to the baby is through natural sunlight. It cannot get any natural than this, when sunlight falls on the body of the baby, it helps in breaking down and decreasing the amount of bilirubin in the body. For this you need to take your baby out in the sunlight, remove his clothes and let him soak the sunlight for a while. Do not leave the baby in open sunlight for long as it might cause sunburn. 

Another source of vitamin D is breastfed milk. It contains almost 6400 IU of vitamin D which boosts health of the baby to a great extent and reduces symptoms. Providing baby with sufficient mother’s milk from time to time can improve the condition of jaundice naturally.

3. Probiotics

According to different studies that have been done on benefits of probiotic foods, it is found that probiotic are actually one of the safest foods to give to new born babies. Yogurt and other few probiotic food that are easy to digest help to improve the symptoms of jaundice and cure health problems. In newborns, jaundice can be particularly efficient as it decreases bilirubin levels to a significant amount that almost treats jaundice. There probiotic food also helps to gain immunity against other bacterial infections and keeps the baby safe.

4. Magnesium

Well magnesium has also been an effective natural treatment that is useful for curing jaundice in newborns. According to study by Natural Health Research Institute, giving magnesium to kids for around 6 weeks showed reduction in accumulation of excess bilirubin in the blood cells. You can add few magnesium rich foods to actually prevent health issues in babies. However, keep in mind to consult a paediatrician in this case and do not give more than 250mg of dosage per day to the baby. Since jaundice is so common in newborns, magnesium can also be given to pregnant or breastfeeding moms to prevent jaundice from occurring.

Also Read- What Does Ayurveda Say About Diet For Pregnant Women? Expert Answers

5. Barley Seed Flour

Here is another natural remedy that can be well included in the diet to reduce symptoms of jaundice. Barley seed flour has great amount of antioxidants that improve the liver function and bin levels in the body. It also decreases bilirubin levels and boost function in newborn’s health. Barley seed flour needs to be put on the baby’s skin along with light exposure which creates a very effective tool to cure jaundice issue.

6. Give body massage to baby

Body massage by essential soothing oils can be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of jaundice in new born babies. This is because massage helps to improve bowel movement in babies that improve the condition of jaundice. Massage the baby gently every morning can aid in reducing enter-hepatic circulation in the baby’s body. 

Also Read- 7 Unhealthy Foods And Their Healthier Alternatives

7. Give some supplements

Since we know that baby’s body is not as efficient as adults, hence it may sometime need additional support by vitamins or formula to help aid in treating condition of jaundice. Babies who have jaundice may not be able to compliment with breast milk, in which formula and some supplements can be given. However these supplements should be free from any chemicals that could affect growth or function of the baby. You may consult a paediatrician before giving any supplements to the baby. This can prevent the baby from dehydration and less bowel movement in newborn. It also leads to decreased bilirubin levels and eventually treats the condition of jaundice.

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Newborn jaundice – discharge: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Your baby has been treated in the hospital for newborn jaundice. This article tells you what you need to know when your baby comes home.

Your baby has newborn jaundice. This common condition is caused by high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Your child’s skin and sclera (whites of their eyes) will look yellow.

Some newborns need to be treated before they leave the hospital. Others may need to go back to the hospital when they are a few days old. Treatment in the hospital most often lasts 1 to 2 days. Your child needs treatment when their bilirubin level is too high or rising too quickly.

To help break down the bilirubin, your child will be placed under bright lights (phototherapy) in a warm, enclosed bed. The infant will wear only a diaper and special eye shades. Your baby may have an intravenous (IV) line to give them fluids.

Rarely, your baby may need treatment called a double volume blood exchange transfusion. This is used when the baby’s bilirubin level is very high.

Unless there are other problems, your child will be able to feed (by breast or bottle) normally. Your child should feed every 2 to 2 ½ hours (10 to 12 times a day).

The health care provider may stop phototherapy and send your child home when their bilirubin level is low enough to be safe. Your child’s bilirubin level will need to be checked in the provider’s office, 24 hours after therapy stops, to make sure the level is not rising again.

Possible side effects of phototherapy are watery diarrhea, dehydration, and skin rash that will go away once the therapy stops.

If your child did not have jaundice at birth but now has it, you should call your provider. Bilirubin levels are generally the highest when a newborn is 3 to 5 days old.

If the bilirubin level is not too high or not rising quickly, you can do phototherapy at home with a fiber optic blanket, which has tiny bright lights in it. You may also use a bed that shines light up from the mattress. A nurse will come to your home to teach you how to use the blanket or bed and to check on your child.

The nurse will return daily to check your child’s:

• Weight
• Intake of breast milk or formula
• Number of wet and poopy (stool) diapers
• Skin, to see how far down (head to toe) the yellow color goes
• Bilirubin level

You must keep the light therapy on your child’s skin and feed your child every 2 to 3 hours (10 to 12 times a day). Feeding prevents dehydration and helps bilirubin leave the body.

Therapy will continue until your baby’s bilirubin level lowers enough to be safe. Your baby’s provider will want to check the level again in 2 to 3 days.

If you are having trouble breastfeeding, contact a breastfeeding nurse specialist.

Contact your baby’s health care provider if the infant:

• Has a yellow color that goes away, but then returns after treatment stop
• Has a yellow color that lasts for more than 2 to 3 weeks

Also contact your baby’s provider if you have concerns, if the jaundice is getting worse, or the baby:

• Is lethargic (hard to wake up), less responsive, or fussy
• Refuses the bottle or breast for more than 2 feedings in a row
• Is losing weight
• Has watery diarrhea

Jaundice of the newborn – discharge; Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia – discharge; Breastfeeding jaundice – discharge; Physiologic jaundice – discharge

• Exchange transfusion – series
• Infant jaundice

Kaplan M, Wong RJ, Burgis JC, Sibley E, Stevenson DK. Neonatal jaundice and liver diseases. In: Martin RJ, Fanaroff AA, Walsh MC, eds. Fanaroff and Martin’s Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 91.

Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM. Digestive system disorders. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 123.

Rozance PJ, Wright CJ. The neonate. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe’s Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 23.

• Biliary atresia
• Bili lights
• Bilirubin blood test
• Bilirubin encephalopathy
• Exchange transfusion
• Jaundice and breastfeeding
• Newborn jaundice
• Premature infant
• Rh incompatibility

• Newborn jaundice – what to ask your doctor

Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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UV Newborn Jaundice Lamp

If your baby has normal (physiological) jaundice, he does not need any special treatment. If the bilirubin level is high, the most commonly used treatment is phototherapy (bright light therapy). It does not contain rays that could harm your baby. Phototherapy is very safe and effective and is not only available in the hospital.

Phototherapy works by changing the bilirubin in the skin into a form that does not cause deafness or brain damage. Your child will need phototherapy until the bilirubin level drops to a safe level. Infants usually receive phototherapy treatment within 48 hours, but often longer if bilirubin levels remain high.

Phototherapy is usually the only treatment needed. Only a small number of children with severe jaundice will need a blood transfusion to replace the depleted red blood cells and remove the bilirubin.

Some babies may have an underlying disease or enzyme deficiency, but temporary inefficiency in bilirubin processing causes jaundice in most newborns. Clinical manifestations of hyperbilirubinemia occur in 60% of healthy newborns and in almost all premature babies.

Since severe hyperbilirubinemia can cause kernicterus, it is important to determine non-physiological serum bilirubin levels in newborns to prevent irreversible neurological damage.

How does phototherapy work?

Exposure to light converts bilirubin into two types of water-soluble molecules that bypass the temporarily inefficient metabolism of bilirubin in the infant’s liver. Some of the converted bilirubin molecules are excreted in the urine.

Phototherapy has been the standard therapy for indirect hyperbilirubinemia for many years. The safety of phototherapy is considered to be higher than that of other treatments. Side effects of phototherapy are very rare and may include purplish rashes, bronze baby syndrome, or mild dehydration.

Phototherapy is not indicated in the following situations:

• The child is given any medication that has a photosensitizing effect.
• Congenital erythropoietic porphyria is a rare hereditary disease that causes severe photosensitivity of the skin.

Axion device for phototherapy at home

Illumination of the light source is one of the most important parameters in the treatment of jaundice. Characteristics of the phototherapy lamp “Axion” home type:

• Radiation intensity – from 500 to 1500 μW/cm2
• Emission wavelength – 465+15 nm

The Aksion photo lamp can be rented from the Toy Library after consulting a pediatrician. Setting up the device is easy to use at home.

How is Axion phototherapy performed?

Axion irradiator is available in 2 types, in the form of a lamp on a telescopic leg and in the form of a low-glow lamp over which a baby hammock is placed.

Place your baby in the carrycot or hammock above the lamp.

Monitor bilirubin every 12 to 24 hours until it is low enough to stop phototherapy.

Check bilirubin levels 24 hours after stopping phototherapy to look for recurrent jaundice, especially in infants with any underlying medical conditions.

How fast does phototherapy work for jaundice?

• Jaundice improves significantly after 24 hours of intensive phototherapy, usually with a 30-40% decrease in blood bilirubin concentration.
• Most infants require phototherapy for 24 to 48 hours
• Some children may need phototherapy for up to a week.
• Infants with severe hyperbilirubinemia may require a blood transfusion if bilirubin levels are not significantly reduced.

Phototherapy home use

Since Axion phototherapy lamps are quite expensive devices, the Toy Library offers to rent this device. LED phototherapy with effective, intense light is safe, does not overheat or affect your baby’s skin. In our catalog you can choose one of two types of UV lamps:

• Upper light lamp “Axion” for the treatment of neonatal jaundice OFTN-420/470-02
• Phototherapeutic lamp “Axion” low light OFTN-03

The illuminator is easy to use and great for treating childhood jaundice at home. Watch the video for instructions on how to use it.

To order an Axion photolamp, go to our website prokatoys.ru and choose Axion lamp rental with delivery. We work in Krasnodar and suburbs.

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Jaundice in newborns – causes, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention and treatment

Synonyms

Neonatal jaundice may also be referred to as fasting amber disease, physiologic jaundice, neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, and hepatic jaundice.

General information

Jaundice in newborns is a common condition that occurs due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is formed from the breakdown of red blood cells and is normally excreted from the body through the liver and intestines. In newborns, the liver is not yet fully formed and may not be able to cope with this function. This leads to the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood and icteric staining of the skin and the white of the eye.

Jaundice in newborns may be physiological or pathological. Physiological jaundice in newborns is a normal physiological process that usually resolves on its own in a few weeks. Pathological jaundice in newborns may be associated with various medical problems such as blood disorders, infections, or liver defects.

Newborn jaundice is diagnosed by measuring the level of bilirubin in the blood. Treatment may include phototherapy or exchange transfusion to lower blood levels of bilirubin. If the child has pathological jaundice, he may need additional examinations and treatment. Therefore, if you suspect jaundice in a newborn, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Statistics

Jaundice in newborns is common. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 60% of newborns develop physiological jaundice, and up to 10% of them may need treatment.

Pathological jaundice in newborns is less common, but may be serious and require urgent treatment. Its frequency varies depending on risk factors and ranges from 1 to 4 cases per 1000 newborns.

Although neonatal jaundice is not usually life-threatening, high bilirubin levels can cause some complications, including damage to the nervous system and hepatobiliary syndrome. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat jaundice in newborns in time to prevent possible complications.

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Causes

Jaundice in newborns occurs due to increased levels of bilirubin in the blood, which can be caused by several factors.

Physiological jaundice in newborns is due to the peculiarities of metabolism in infants. During the birth process, many red blood cells are destroyed, which leads to an increase in the amount of bilirubin in the blood. In newborns, the liver is not yet fully developed and may not be able to process this bilirubin, leading to accumulation in the blood and icteric discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes.

Pathological jaundice in newborns can be caused by a variety of causes, including:

• Rhesus conflict between maternal and fetal blood
• Hemolytic anemia in newborns
• Infections such as sepsis or hepatitis
• Liver defects such as biliary atresia or cirrhosis
• Prematurity
• Premature placental abruption

Some medical procedures, such as exchange transfusion and phototherapy, may also increase the risk of neonatal jaundice.

Symptoms of jaundice in newborns

The main symptom of jaundice in newborns is yellow discoloration of the skin and sclera of the eyes. In newborns with high levels of bilirubin, the skin may be bright yellow, orange, or brown, and the whites of the eyes may have a yellow tint. This symptom usually appears on the 2-4th day of life and may persist for several weeks.

Newborns with pathological jaundice may also have severe weakness, restlessness, food refusal, sleep disturbance, delayed weight gain and decreased muscle tone. In some cases, more severe symptoms may appear, such as vomiting, fever, and respiratory failure.

Diagnosing jaundice in newborns requires a physical examination and measurement of bilirubin levels in the blood. In some cases, additional testing may be needed, such as blood and urine tests, an ultrasound of the liver and bile ducts, and a liver biopsy.

Abdominal enlargement

Jaundice

Nervousness and irritability

Drowsiness

Which doctor treats

If you suspect jaundice in your newborn, you should contact your pediatrician or neonatologist. They will be able to examine the child, measure the level of bilirubin in the blood and determine if additional treatment is needed.

If you notice that your newborn’s icteric coloration is getting brighter, or if the baby has other symptoms such as refusing to eat or sleeping, see a doctor as soon as possible.

High bilirubin levels and complications of neonatal jaundice may require consultation with a hepatologist or pediatric gastroenterologist.

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Yuliya Evgenievna Vanina

Experience 18 years

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Diagnosis of jaundice in newborns

Diagnosis of jaundice in newborns usually includes a physical examination and measurement of bilirubin levels in the blood.

The doctor will examine the child’s skin and eyes to check for jaundice. He may also feel the child’s abdomen to check for an enlarged liver or spleen.

Blood bilirubin may need to be measured using a finger prick or vein. The level of bilirubin is usually measured using a blood test performed on days 2-4 of life. If the bilirubin level is higher than normal, additional blood and urine tests, an ultrasound of the liver and bile ducts, and a liver biopsy may be needed.

In some cases, additional testing, such as a blood type and Rh factor test, may be required to determine the risk of an Rh conflict between the maternal and fetal blood.

If the child has high bilirubin levels, the doctor may recommend additional treatment, such as phototherapy or exchange transfusion, to lower the bilirubin level in the blood.

Treatment of jaundice in newborns

Treatment of jaundice in newborns depends on what caused it and on the level of bilirubin in the blood.

Physiologic jaundice in newborns usually resolves on its own within a few weeks, so the doctor may recommend simply monitoring the baby.

If the bilirubin level is high, additional treatment may be required. The most common treatments for neonatal jaundice are phototherapy and exchange transfusion.

• Phototherapy: This is a treatment in which the child is placed under a special lamp that emits light at a specific wavelength. This allows you to change the structure of bilirubin in the blood, which contributes to its removal from the body. Phototherapy is usually done in a hospital, and the baby may be placed in an incubator to monitor body temperature and fluid levels.

• Exchange transfusion: This is a procedure in which a small amount of blood is removed from a child’s body and replaced with donated blood. This reduces the level of bilirubin in the blood and prevents the development of complications. Exchange transfusion is performed only in cases where the level of bilirubin is critically high and phototherapy does not give the desired effect.

If neonatal jaundice is due to pathological causes, additional treatment may be required, such as antibiotics to treat infections or surgery to correct liver defects. In such cases, treatment is prescribed individually and depends on the diagnosis and condition of the child.

If left untreated

If neonatal jaundice is left untreated, high levels of bilirubin in the blood can lead to serious complications, including damage to the nervous system and hepatobiliary syndrome.

Newborns with high bilirubin levels can develop kernicterus, which can lead to impaired movement and muscle tone, seizures, and other neurological complications.

Rarely, high levels of bilirubin can cause kernicterus, which can lead to impaired movement and muscle tone, seizures, and other neurological complications.

It is therefore important to diagnose and treat neonatal jaundice in time to prevent possible complications. If you suspect that your newborn has jaundice, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible to get the correct diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment.

How to help yourself

Jaundice in newborns is a serious condition that requires medical attention and, if necessary, treatment. Despite this, there are several ways that can help reduce the risk of jaundice in newborns:

1. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding may help reduce the risk of jaundice in newborns. Breast milk contributes to the normal functioning of the liver and helps the body get rid of excess bilirubin.

2. Regular feeding: Regular feeding of the child helps to maintain normal levels of bilirubin in the blood. It is recommended to feed newborns at least 8 times a day.

3. Increase in the amount of urine: Regular urination helps to get rid of excess bilirubin. You can apply warm compresses to your baby’s abdomen to encourage urination.

4. Checking bilirubin levels: If you are at high risk of developing jaundice in your newborn, your doctor may order additional blood tests to check your bilirubin levels. Depending on the result of the analysis, the doctor may recommend additional treatment.

5. Follow doctor’s instructions: If a child is diagnosed with jaundice, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and follow all prescriptions. Your doctor may recommend phototherapy or other procedures to help lower your blood bilirubin levels.

However, remember that if jaundice is suspected in a newborn, self-medication is not recommended and a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible.

Risks

Jaundice in newborns can carry certain risks, especially if it is not treated in time or if it is caused by pathological causes. Some of these risks may include:

1. Kernicterus: This is a serious complication that can occur when a newborn has high levels of bilirubin in the blood. It can lead to increased muscle tone, seizures, and other neurological problems.

2. Nervous System Damage: High levels of bilirubin can cause damage to the nervous system in the newborn, which can cause increased muscle tone, poor motor coordination, visual and hearing impairment, and other neurological problems.

3. Hepatobiliary syndrome: High levels of bilirubin can cause damage to the liver and biliary tract in the newborn, which can lead to a variety of problems, including liver problems.

4. Developmental delay: Some newborns may be developmentally delayed if they are diagnosed with jaundice and do not receive timely treatment.

5. Risk of treatment complications: Some treatments, such as exchange transfusion, may carry certain risks, including the possibility of infections, allergic reactions, and other problems.

Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat neonatal jaundice in time to prevent possible complications. If your child has jaundice, you need to see a doctor to get the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention of jaundice in newborns

There are several ways to prevent jaundice in newborns:

1. Regular breastfeeding: Breast milk contains important nutrients that help the newborn to maintain normal liver function and get rid of excess bilirubin. Therefore, regular breastfeeding helps prevent the development of jaundice.

2. Regular feeding: Regular feeding of the newborn helps to maintain normal levels of bilirubin in the blood and prevents its accumulation.

3. Monitoring of the child: It is important to carefully observe the child’s condition and look for signs of jaundice. If you suspect jaundice, you should contact your doctor immediately.

4. Follow doctor’s advice: If your child is at risk of developing jaundice, the doctor can give advice on how to prevent and monitor the child’s condition. It is important to follow these recommendations and not miss your doctor’s appointments.

5. Good hygiene practices: Good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands regularly before contact with your baby, can help prevent the development of infectious diseases that can lead to jaundice.

6. Prevention of Rh incompatibility: If the mother and father have different blood types or a different Rh factor, preventive measures of Rh incompatibility may be required to prevent the development of jaundice in the child.

In general, the prevention of jaundice in newborns is a healthy lifestyle and regular monitoring of the child’s condition.