Patient's question:
My son is two days old. Today, the jaundice level was measured at 11. I'm worried it might get worse, so I want to ask the doctor for some medication to prevent it for my son. But the doctor said it's best not to take medication. I want to ask if jaundice at 11 in newborns requires medication?Doctor's answer:
Neonatal jaundice refers to the condition during the neonatal period where abnormal bilirubin metabolism leads to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood, resulting in the yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera. It is the most common clinical issue in newborns. This condition can be divided into two major categories: physiological and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice is a temporary form of jaundice caused by bilirubin metabolism. It typically occurs 2 to 3 days after birth and reaches its peak between 4 to 6 days. Currently, no special treatment is required, and only close observation is necessary.