Question
After three days of birth, my newborn’s skin started to turn yellow, with a bilirubin level between 8 and 9. The doctor said that if the level exceeds 12, it may indicate jaundice. Therefore, we were instructed to observe at home. Starting from the fourth day, the baby could sleep continuously for five to six hours. Upon waking up, he wouldn’t drink milk. We had to wake him up every three hours to force him to drink milk, but he drank slowly, unlike other babies who would continuously suckle. He would sometimes not suckle at the nipple and had to be put in his mouth for a long time before he started to suck. Now, at nine days old, he can drink 70 milliliters. Is this normal?
Answer
Newborn jaundice, whether caused by pathological jaundice due to any reason, should identify the cause and initiate treatment. Especially for premature infants and those with severe water intoxication, acidosis, intracranial inflammation, or severe infections within the first week, early and active treatment is necessary to avoid adverse consequences. The above suggestions are for the question “How to Handle Newborn Jaundice and Anorexia,” hoping they are helpful to you. Wishing you health!