Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, also referred to as jaundice in newborns, is a condition where bilirubin levels in a baby’s blood exceed normal limits.
Symptoms of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia Signs of this condition may include:
A yellowish hue to the baby’s skin and eyes.
Unusual drowsiness or lethargy.
Challenges with feeding, such as difficulty sucking.
Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
Struggling to wake up for feeding.
If any of these symptoms are observed, it is crucial to seek medical care promptly for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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Causes of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia
The following factors may contribute to the development of neonatal jaundice:
1. Immature Liver Function:
Newborns often have underdeveloped livers, making bilirubin processing less efficient.
2. Increased Red Blood Cell Breakdown:
Elevated bilirubin levels can result from accelerated breakdown of red blood cells.
3. Blood Type Incompatibility:
Conditions like Rh incompatibility can lead to increased red blood cell destruction.
4. Premature Birth:
Babies born prematurely have less mature liver functions, increasing their risk of jaundice.
5. Infections or Illnesses:
Certain health issues or infections can interfere with how bilirubin is processed.
Diagnosis of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia
At LifePlus Hospital, our pediatric specialists utilize advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate bilirubin levels. Methods include:
Physical Assessment: A medical professional examines the baby’s skin and eyes for signs of jaundice.
Blood Tests: A bilirubin test measures the bilirubin concentration in the baby’s blood.
Transcutaneous Bilirubin Monitoring: A non-invasive device estimates bilirubin levels through the skin.
Treatment Options at Life Plus Hospital
We offer expert care for managing neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, focusing on helping your baby recover and thrive. Our treatments include:
Phototherapy: This common treatment employs special lights that help break down bilirubin in the baby’s body. The baby is placed under controlled light exposure to support this process.
Exchange Transfusion: For severe cases, when phototherapy is insufficient, an exchange transfusion is performed to replace the baby’s blood, effectively removing excess bilirubin.
Hydration Support: Adequate feeding ensures bilirubin is expelled through the digestive system. We provide lactation guidance to help maintain proper nutrition.
Continuous Monitoring: Bilirubin levels are carefully tracked, with 24/7 care to enable timely interventions when needed.
Why Choose Life Plus Hospital?
At Life Plus Hospital, we prioritize the well-being of your baby with specialized pediatric care:
Experienced Pediatricians:
Our experts are trained to meet the unique needs of newborns.
Advanced Diagnostic Techniques:
We use cutting-edge technology to accurately diagnose and treat neonatal jaundice.
Compassionate and Family-Centered Care:
We empathize with parents’ concerns and provide supportive guidance throughout the treatment process.
24/7 Availability:
Our emergency and inpatient units are always ready to address urgent neonatal care needs.
The diagnosis is often made through a physical exam (looking for signs of jaundice) and confirmed by measuring the bilirubin levels in the baby's blood or skin using a device called a transcutaneous bilirubinometer. Blood tests are done to confirm the levels and determine the underlying cause if necessary.
Phototherapy involves exposing the baby’s skin to special blue lights. These lights help break down excess bilirubin in the skin into a form that can be easily excreted in the urine and stool.
Yes, phototherapy is generally considered safe and effective. The baby will be closely monitored to ensure proper hydration and temperature regulation during treatment. Protective eye patches are used to shield the baby’s eyes from the light.
If left untreated or inadequately managed, high levels of bilirubin can lead to kernicterus, a rare but severe form of brain damage caused by bilirubin build up in the brain. This can result in lifelong disabilities, such as:
It is uncommon for jaundice to recur once bilirubin levels have returned to normal, but some babies may experience a slight increase in bilirubin levels within the first few weeks, especially in cases of breast milk jaundice. Continued monitoring is important in these cases.
While jaundice can be a common and mild condition in new-borns, it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying issue (e.g., blood group incompatibility, liver disease, or infection).