Question
My baby has had jaundice for 40 days now, and we’ve already tried blue light therapy. The herbal jaundice washes haven’t shown much effect. What should we do?
Answer
Neonatal jaundice, also known as neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, is characterized by yellowing of the skin, sclera, and mucous membranes due to the unique bilirubin metabolism of newborns. It is common in 60% of full-term infants and over 80% of premature infants, usually appearing within 3-5 days after birth and naturally resolving within 14 days. However, if jaundice persists for an extended period (more than 2 weeks in full-term infants, more than 4 weeks in premature infants) or recurs, it may be pathological jaundice, requiring further diagnosis and treatment. Pathological jaundice may be associated with causes such as infection, hemolytic disease, congenital bile duct obstruction, and breast milk jaundice. For persistent neonatal jaundice that does not subside, it is essential to seek professional medical advice for necessary examinations and treatments to avoid adverse consequences.