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:
If any of these symptoms are observed, it is crucial to seek medical care promptly for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Newborns often have underdeveloped livers, making bilirubin processing less efficient.
Elevated bilirubin levels can result from accelerated breakdown of red blood cells.
Conditions like Rh incompatibility can lead to increased red blood cell destruction.
Babies born prematurely have less mature liver functions, increasing their risk of jaundice.
Certain health issues or infections can interfere with how bilirubin is processed.
At LifePlus Hospital, our pediatric specialists utilize advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate bilirubin levels. Methods include:
We offer expert care for managing neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, focusing on helping your baby recover and thrive. Our treatments include:
At Life Plus Hospital, we prioritize the well-being of your baby with specialized pediatric care:
Our experts are trained to meet the unique needs of newborns.
We use cutting-edge technology to accurately diagnose and treat neonatal jaundice.
We empathize with parents’ concerns and provide supportive guidance throughout the treatment process.
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:
In most cases, jaundice caused by neonatal hyperbilirubinemia resolves within 1 to 2 weeks after birth, with treatment.
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.
No, giving your baby water or sugar water is not recommended as a treatment for jaundice.
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).
Contact your doctor if: