Question
My newborn is two months old and has a bilirubin level of 6.9. Does it require treatment? After several days of blue light therapy, the bilirubin level dropped to 4.9. What is the normal range, and does drinking glucose water help improve jaundice?
Answer
Within the first week after birth, bilirubin levels in the blood may rise, but severe jaundice (bilirubin exceeding 25-30 mg/dl) can lead to brain damage if left untreated. Treatments for severe jaundice include phototherapy, where blue light exposure converts bilirubin into a compound that is easier to excrete in urine. It is recommended to provide more detailed examination projects and result values for further assessment.