Question
A relative’s baby was born one week ago and, after discharge, it was found that the baby’s face was yellow. The doctor diagnosed it as physiological jaundice, indicating that there is no major concern and it will disappear naturally. How long does neonatal jaundice typically take to disappear?
Answer
Physiological jaundice is usually mild, with most infants showing signs within two to three days after birth and disappearing naturally within one to three weeks. However, pathological jaundice is more severe, with some infants showing symptoms within 24 hours of birth or appearing one to several weeks after birth and persisting for two to three weeks without improvement, even possibly worsening. If not treated promptly, it may lead to serious complications, even threatening life. It is recommended to bring the baby to a large public hospital for a follow-up examination, to test the jaundice index, and to receive appropriate treatment if necessary.