Neonatal Jaundice

18-11-2024 11:56

The most common cause of jaundice in newborns is inadequate feeding. Newborns should be breastfed on demand, and this should not exceed two hours, especially in the first few days. If the baby is not fed adequately, problems such as increased jaundice and low blood sugar can occur. Feeding-related jaundice usually occurs 2-4 days after birth.

So, how is newborn jaundice detected? Jaundice is first detected by yellowing of the whites of the baby's eyes and skin. This yellowing begins at the head and progresses downward. If the baby's skin is also yellowing below the diaper area, you likely have advanced jaundice. To confirm, you can press your finger on the baby's nose or abdomen to see if the area around the pressure reflects red or yellow.

If you notice jaundice in your baby, you should first take your baby to a doctor to have the jaundice level checked. Bilirubin levels are checked based on the baby's age and weight. Depending on the appropriate level, breastfeeding intervals should be increased, and keeping the baby fasting will be sufficient to correct the jaundice. If the jaundice level is significantly higher than normal, the first method that can be used is phototherapy. Phototherapy involves placing the baby under a special lamp that emits a blue-green light to lower the bilirubin level. The light makes the bilirubin molecules soluble in the urine, allowing them to be eliminated from the body. The baby's eyes are covered to protect them from the light. The duration may vary depending on the severity of the jaundice, and breastfeeding should continue during this time.

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