Question

At 23 weeks, I wasn’t sure what the situation was, and later found out that the baby was sick. What should I do if the baby has jaundice and can’t stand up?

Answer

This condition should not be hemolytic, which usually recurs within the first 2-3 days after birth. Common causes include breastfeeding jaundice or bile duct abnormalities in children. It is recommended to closely monitor the bilirubin levels. If the levels decrease, a venous blood test can be conducted. If the levels are high, it is advisable to hospitalize the baby for a thorough examination. When bilirubin levels are high, some children may develop kernicterus, often leading to sequelae. It is recommended to consult a pediatric neurologist; stopping breastfeeding for 3-5 days for retesting may be beneficial. There is no cause for concern if a baby can’t stand up; please consult a pediatric neurologist for a detailed examination.