Question
The baby has jaundice, with yellowish skin and eyes, and is also experiencing symptoms such as sleeplessness and brief convulsions. Could this be a severe case of neonatal jaundice?
Answer
Neonatal jaundice refers to a condition in which the level of bilirubin in the blood increases due to abnormal bilirubin metabolism during the neonatal period, resulting in yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera. This is one of the most common issues in neonatal periods. Jaundice manifests as pale yellow regional or general yellowing, which usually fades away gradually within a few days and does not cause long-term effects on the baby.