Question
The baby is already 17 days old, but the jaundice clearance is slow. During this period, breastfeeding and water intake have been increased to promote the jaundice clearance, but the baby’s skin still appears yellow. Is this situation normal? There are suggestions that glucose water can be given to the baby. Is this method appropriate?
Answer
Newborn jaundice can be divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice is a temporary jaundice caused by the characteristics of bilirubin metabolism and usually appears 2-3 days after birth, reaches its peak at 4-6 days, and clears up within 7-10 days. In premature infants, it may last longer. Apart from mild loss of appetite, there are no other clinical symptoms. If the jaundice persists for too long, it may be related to pathological jaundice and require corresponding treatment.