Question
A 7-day-old newborn is experiencing jaundice, has short sleep duration, and cries and demands milk upon waking. Each breastfeeding session lasts about 5 minutes. Urination is normal, but the stools are loose and yellow. Could this be caused by jaundice?
Answer
Neonates often develop jaundice, which is a normal phenomenon and parents should not be overly concerned. This type of jaundice usually resolves naturally within three weeks after birth and does not require medication. However, if it does not disappear after two weeks, it may be pathological. Approximately 1% of newborns may have breastmilk jaundice, at which point it is necessary to increase water intake, expose to sunlight, or undergo blue light therapy. If it is caused by infection or biliary tract disease, a pediatric examination and treatment are required.