Patient's question:
My child is 13 days old, but the jaundice has not subsided yet. What could be the reason? How many types of jaundice are there, and how can they be identified and cared for? Thank you!Doctor's answer:
Jaundice gradually decreases after a period of high levels. If breastfeeding is stopped for 48 hours, bilirubin levels drop by 50%. If breastfeeding resumes, bilirubin levels will rise again. Pathological jaundice, regardless of the cause, can lead to "kernicterus" when severe, with poor prognosis. In addition to damaging the nervous system, it can also cause severe death. Therefore, prevention should be emphasized for pathological jaundice in newborns, such as preventing toxoplasmosis and rubella virus infections during pregnancy, especially in the early stages to prevent viral infections; preventing postnatal sepsis; and administering the hepatitis B vaccine at birth. Parents should closely monitor changes in their child's jaundice. If signs of pathological jaundice are detected, they should be taken to the hospital for treatment.