Newborn jaundice depends on the level of bilirubin. Physiological jaundice goes away on its own.
WHAT IS JAUNDICE? - Yellowing of the skin and eyes - Bilirubin elevation - It is common in newborns
TYPES:
1. PHYSIOLOGICAL JAUNDICE: - Starts 2-3 days after birth - It passes in 1-2 weeks - Nutrition and weight gain are normal - Does not require treatment
2. PATHOLOGICAL JAUNDICE: - Starts in the first 24 hours - Lasts more than 2 weeks - High bilirubin - Requires treatment
REASONS: - Mother-baby blood incompatibility - Infection - Liver problems - Hypothyroidism
TREATMENT: 1. PHOTOTHERAPY: - Special blue light - Eyes are closed - Plenty of fluids
2. EXCHANGE TRANSFUSION: - Very high bilirubin - Rarely needed
COMPLICATION: - Kernicterus (brain damage) - Hearing loss - Cerebral palsy - Developmental delay
FOLLOW: - Bilirubin measurement - Weight tracking - Urine and stool color