Patient's question:
What should be done if a newborn has high jaundice? Born 5 days ago. Checked today and the jaundice level is high at 350. The nose is yellow with white spots. The white part of the eyes is also yellow. The face is yellow too. Is there a major problem?Doctor's answer:
Neonatal jaundice is primarily caused by disorders in bilirubin metabolism. Most cases are normal physiological jaundice and can subside around 14 days. In some breastfed newborns, bilirubin levels are typically higher than in formula-fed newborns. Therefore, jaundice tends to last longer, peaking around 7-8 days and subsiding within about 20 days or longer. This type of jaundice is called breast milk jaundice. Newborns with this condition are generally doing well and do not cause brain damage. In most cases, they do not require special treatment. As long as the child is in good spirits and eating well, there is no need for excessive anxiety. Blue light therapy can also be administered.