Question
The newborn was diagnosed with jaundice six days after birth and is currently receiving blue light therapy. However, the parents have noticed that the baby is showing signs of drowsiness and weakened sucking power, and they are worried that this could be a sign of neonatal jaundice encephalopathy. What are the symptoms of neonatal jaundice encephalopathy?
Answer
Bilirubin encephalopathy is a relatively severe condition, with symptoms that may include drowsiness, muscle tension, and decreased sucking power. If the condition worsens, symptoms such as irritability, refusal to breastfeed, and seizures may occur. If the baby is being treated in a hospital, it is recommended to undergo a brain CT scan or MRI, as well as a blood bilirubin test, to confirm whether bilirubin encephalopathy is present and to decide whether blood transfusion treatment is needed based on the results of the examination.