Question
The newborn has jaundice on the face and body, with a total bilirubin level of 356.9. How should it be treated?
Answer
Neonatal jaundice is common, but parents should learn to differentiate between physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice usually appears two to three days after birth, reaches its peak between seven to ten days, and then gradually subsides, with the baby in good health during this period. Pathological jaundice, on the other hand, shows up earlier, is more severe, and takes longer to disappear, sometimes even recurring. In some cases, jaundice may be caused by breast milk, but usually the baby is in good condition and the jaundice may lighten after stopping breastfeeding. If there is a suspicion of pathological jaundice, it is important to seek medical attention for examination and treatment promptly.