Question
My newborn is 4 days old and the bilirubin index has reached 13 after examination. Is it too high? What are the effects? Do I need to go to the hospital? Please provide an immediate online response.
Answer
Hello, I’m glad to assist you with your query. It’s common for newborns to develop physiological jaundice within 2 to 3 days after birth, so there’s no need to be overly concerned. This is due to the higher rate of red blood cell breakdown in newborns, releasing a large amount of bilirubin. Since the liver of a newborn is not fully developed, it cannot immediately process this bilirubin, leading to jaundice. Recommendations: This is a normal physiological jaundice that typically peaks between the 4th and 5th day after birth and resolves spontaneously within 7 to 10 days. You don’t need to worry too much. You can help the jaundice subside by allowing your newborn to get more sunlight and increasing breast milk feeding. When exposing your baby to sunlight, please ensure their eyes and genitals are not directly exposed to the sun and let their entire body be exposed to natural light. The best times are around 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your newborn is not breastfeeding well and their entire body shows grayish jaundice, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately.