Question
Do newborns with jaundice need treatment? Do they need to go to the hospital for treatment? How long does the treatment usually take to show effects?
Answer
Physiological jaundice is characterized by a gradual increase in serum bilirubin levels from 17-51μmol/L (1-3mg/dl) at birth to 86μmol/L (5mg/dl) or higher within 24 hours after birth, without any other symptoms. Generally, physiological jaundice will naturally resolve within 1 to 2 weeks, so parents are advised to observe first and not worry too much. However, precautions should be taken with physiological jaundice to prevent misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis of pathological jaundice. If the jaundice persists or other symptoms appear, it is important to seek medical evaluation and necessary treatment promptly.