Question
A 2-week-old newborn has slightly elevated jaundice. What Chinese medicine can be used for a bath? The hospital suggested phototherapy, but I feel sorry for the baby being so small. Another doctor said it’s hemolytic jaundice and no medication is needed; it will get better on its own. Now, I’m not sure what to do? What should be used to wash a newborn with high jaundice?
Answer
Newborns go through a period of jaundice, which is usually self-resolving. They should drink plenty of water to promote metabolism during this time. If the jaundice is severe, blue light therapy can be considered, along with some anti-jaundice medications to rule out jaundice caused by viral hepatitis. Pay attention to the newborn’s warmth, appropriate early feeding, and ensure an adequate supply of water and heat. Early excretion of meconium can reduce the intestinal and hepatic circulation of bilirubin, thereby lessening the severity of physiological jaundice.