Mga Mommies and Daddies! Seeing your newborn’s skin turn a bit yellow can be alarming. As a pediatrician here in Bacolod for over a decade, I’ve seen many cases of newborn jaundice, and I understand your concerns. It’s actually quite common, but it’s important to understand what causes it, how it’s treated, and when to seek medical advice. So, let’s talk about newborn jaundice, what you need to know here in the Philippines, and how we can ensure our little ones are healthy and thriving.
What is Newborn Jaundice?
Jaundice is a yellowing of a baby’s skin and the whites of their eyes. It’s caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Most babies have some degree of jaundice, and it usually appears a few days after birth.
Why Do Newborns Get Jaundice?
- Immature Liver: Newborns’ livers are still developing and sometimes can’t process bilirubin efficiently.
- Increased Red Blood Cell Breakdown: Babies have a higher number of red blood cells, and these break down quickly after birth, increasing bilirubin levels.
- Breastfeeding: Sometimes, breastfeeding can contribute to jaundice (breast milk jaundice), although it’s important to continue breastfeeding as it has many other benefits.
Recognizing the Signs of Jaundice
It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of jaundice so you can seek medical attention if needed.
Symptoms of Jaundice:
- Yellowing of the skin: This usually starts on the face and spreads to the chest, abdomen, and legs.
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes: This is another clear indicator.
- Dark urine: A baby with jaundice may have darker than usual urine.
- Pale stools: In severe cases, the baby’s stools may be paler than usual.
- Lethargy or poor feeding: If your baby is very sleepy, not feeding well, or seems unusually fussy, it’s essential to consult your doctor.
Treating Newborn Jaundice: What to Expect
The treatment for jaundice depends on the level of bilirubin and the baby’s overall health.
Treatment Options:
- Phototherapy: This is the most common treatment. The baby is placed under a special blue light that helps break down the bilirubin into a form that can be easily excreted. Phototherapy can be done in the hospital or, in some cases, at home.
- Exchange Transfusion: In rare, severe cases, an exchange transfusion may be necessary to replace the baby’s blood with healthy blood.
- Supportive Care: For mild jaundice, frequent feedings (breast milk or formula) can help the baby pass bilirubin through their stools. Sunlight exposure (short periods, indirect) can sometimes help, but it’s important to avoid direct sunlight, which can be harmful.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild jaundice often resolves on its own, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if:
When to See a Doctor:
- Jaundice appears in the first 24 hours of life: This could indicate a more serious problem.
- The yellowing spreads quickly or becomes very intense.
- Your baby is not feeding well, is lethargic, or has a high-pitched cry.
- Your baby has a fever.
- Your baby’s urine is very dark or their stools are pale.
Caring for Your Baby with Jaundice at Home
If your baby has mild jaundice and is being monitored at home, your doctor may give you some instructions.
Home Care Tips:
- Frequent Feedings: Feed your baby frequently (every 2-3 hours) to help them pass bilirubin.
- Monitor for Worsening Symptoms: Watch for any signs that the jaundice is getting worse and contact your doctor immediately if you have any concerns.
- Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Adhere to all the instructions given by your pediatrician.
Understanding Jaundice in Filipino Newborns
Jaundice is a common occurrence in newborns, and most cases are mild and resolve without any long-term effects. However, it’s crucial to be vigilant, recognize the signs, and seek medical attention when necessary. Here in the Philippines, access to phototherapy and other treatments is improving, and with proper care, we can ensure our babies thrive. If you have any questions or concerns about newborn jaundice, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or another pediatrician here in Bacolod. We’re here to support you and your little one every step of the way. Kaynaklar ve ilgili içerik
