Question
On the third day after birth, I noticed that the baby’s skin is a bit yellow. The check-up shows neonatal jaundice. What are the main causes of neonatal jaundice?
Answer
Neonatal jaundice generally falls into two categories: physiological and pathological. If it’s physiological, it’s normal and there’s no need to worry; it will recover gradually. Pathological jaundice can worsen within 24 hours, with serum bilirubin levels exceeding the normal range, and the skin and sclera will turn yellow and worsen. It is important to consult a hospital to investigate the cause of jaundice to prevent further deterioration of the condition. Treatments such as phototherapy, chemotherapy, and traditional Chinese medicine can be adopted, but they must be accompanied by complications such as hemolytic jaundice, hepatocellular jaundice, and bile duct obstruction. Therefore, when dealing with jaundice, it is necessary to seek medical treatment at a hospital to avoid further deterioration of the condition.