Question
Do newborns with mild jaundice need to take medicine?
Answer
When newborns develop jaundice, it is usually not necessary to administer medication immediately. Jaundice is a common phenomenon in newborns, and most often it is physiological, meaning it is caused by the incomplete development of the liver, which cannot fully process bilirubin in the blood. In such cases, jaundice typically resolves on its own within a few days without any special treatment. However, when jaundice is pathological, that is, caused by certain diseases such as bile duct obstruction, hemolytic diseases, or other infections, it should be taken seriously. In these cases, jaundice may be accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, decreased appetite, and abdominal distension. It is important to seek medical assistance promptly to determine the cause of the jaundice and receive appropriate treatment. Additionally, when bilirubin levels reach a certain degree without proper treatment, they may cross the blood-brain barrier and damage brain cells, a condition known as kernicterus. Kernicterus can lead to severe consequences such as brain damage, seizures, and intellectual disability. Therefore, if there is a suspicion of pathological jaundice in newborns, medical attention should be sought immediately to avoid potential complications.