Question
Soon after birth, the doctor diagnoses the baby’s bilirubin levels as elevated. How should one properly handle this situation to avoid affecting the baby’s health?
Answer
Newborns commonly develop jaundice within 1 to 2 days after birth, reaching its peak between 3 to 4 days, and typically subsides naturally within a week. Treatment for jaundice can include blue or fluorescent light therapy, during which the baby’s eyes must be protected. During the day, the baby can be briefly exposed to sunlight, but direct sunlight to the eyes should be avoided. If the jaundice is severe, oral silver jaundice powder can be considered for the baby, along with encouraging increased intake of plain water.