What is jaundice in children
Infantile jaundice is a common neonatal disease that usually begins to appear on the 2nd to 3rd day after birth. It is characterized by yellowing of the baby\’s skin and eyeballs, and pale yellow urine and feces. Jaundice usually disappears naturally within 1-2 weeks after birth, but in some cases it may last longer and affect the baby\’s health and growth.
Causes of jaundice
Jaundice is caused by the accumulation of a waste product called bilirubin in the mother\’s blood in the newborn\’s body. This is because a newborn\’s liver is not fully mature and cannot effectively convert bilirubin into a form that is easily excreted. In addition, other factors may cause jaundice, including blood incompatibility, injury during birth, etc.
How to prevent jaundice in children
To prevent jaundice in children, you need to pay attention to the following points:
1. Increase the number of feedings. Frequent breastfeeding can help babies excrete bilirubin from the body faster.
2. Let the baby receive adequate sunlight exposure. Under the guidance of a doctor, letting babies bask in the morning sun can help promote the metabolism and excretion of bilirubin.
3. Keep the baby in good health. Conditions such as anemia and infections can cause jaundice, so keep your baby well nourished and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Treatment of jaundice in children
Treatment of jaundice in children usually includes the following methods:
1. Breastfeed frequently. Frequent breastfeeding can help babies excrete bilirubin from the body faster.
2. Use light therapy. When exposed to light, bilirubin breaks down into a form that is easily excreted. Phototherapy usually takes place in a hospital or clinic.
3. Give medication. In some cases, babies need medication to help the bilirubin pass out of the body.
Summary
Infantile jaundice is a common neonatal disease, but in most cases it does not require special treatment. It can be prevented and treated through simple measures such as regular feeding and sun exposure. In some cases, doctors may need to use methods such as light therapy or medication to help the baby eliminate bilirubin from the body. To prevent and treat jaundice in children, we need to pay attention to the following points: strengthen breastfeeding, let the baby receive enough sunlight, keep the baby in good health, and let the baby exercise more to promote metabolism and excretion.
