Question
A newborn has been experiencing mild to moderate jaundice for nearly 50 days after birth. Although there has been improvement after hospital treatment, the test results have caused concern among the parents. What are the possible causes for persistent jaundice in newborns?
Answer
Persistent jaundice in newborns can be caused by various factors, including physiological jaundice, breast milk jaundice, hemolytic diseases, infections, or other underlying health issues. It is recommended that parents increase the baby’s water intake in daily life and allow the baby to be exposed to sunlight appropriately to promote the jaundice’s regression. At the same time, mothers should pay attention to their diet and choose light and easy-to-digest foods. If parents are worried about the test results, they should consult the attending physician to understand whether further treatment or observation is needed. In most cases, medication treatment may lead to abnormal blood routine test results, so it is advisable to observe the situation for a period of time to see if there is any improvement.