Reasons for the slow resolution of neonatal jaundice

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on June 17, 2025
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Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms in the newborn period. It can be a normal physiological phenomenon or a manifestation of certain diseases. Jaundice is divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Generally, physiological jaundice in full-term infants lasts no more than two weeks, while in preterm infants, it lasts no more than four weeks. If the resolution of jaundice is delayed, it indicates pathological jaundice. Pathological jaundice generally requires investigation of the cause. If the cause is not eliminated, the jaundice will persist and thus resolve slowly. For instance, if an infection is uncontrolled, or there is hemolysis, reduced thyroid function, or genetic diseases such as G6PD enzyme deficiency, abnormalities in the red blood cell membrane, or problems with the liver or bile ducts, these could all lead to slow resolution of jaundice. Therefore, if the jaundice lasts for an extended period, it is generally advisable to visit a hospital for relevant tests.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Is a bilirubin level of 20 high for a newborn?

If a newborn's skin jaundice reaches a level of twenty, it is a warning sign that the jaundice is significantly elevated. It is advised to promptly go to the hospital for an examination. If the bilirubin levels in the blood are indeed that high, timely intervention and treatment are necessary. Normally, for physiological jaundice, the levels should not exceed fifteen after seventy-two hours in infants. Even during the peak period of four to five days, it should not surpass fifteen. If the jaundice noticeably increases within the first three days and exceeds twenty, the severity of the jaundice might be worse. The younger the newborn, especially with levels above twenty, the higher the risk of bilirubin entering the brain, potentially leading to bilirubin encephalopathy. Therefore, with jaundice reaching twenty, it is still recommended to promptly go to the hospital for intervention and treatment.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
1min 35sec home-news-image

How should newborns with jaundice sunbathe?

Generally, when we say that the jaundice level is high, doctors might suggest sunbathing when it approaches pathological values, and possibly taking probiotics with live bacteria to help the baby recover from jaundice. Normally, for sunbathing, it is advised not to do it through glass, and to expose the skin directly to the sun, but you should not expose the baby's eyes directly to the sun because the ultraviolet rays are too strong and may damage the eyes. Additionally, when sunbathing, if it is during the cooler seasons like winter, spring, or autumn, it is important to ensure the baby does not catch a cold. If it is summer, avoid sunbathing during times when the sun is too strong, as the baby's delicate skin might get sunburned, potentially causing harm. Therefore, it is generally best to choose conditions when the temperature is mild and the wind is not too strong, then pay attention to keeping warm or avoiding sunburn. Generally, it is not recommended to use sunscreen or shade for sunbathing; direct exposure of the skin is needed. Parents should consider the actual condition of the disease and try to make the baby as comfortable as possible, avoiding colds or sunburn. If sunbathing is not effective, it is advisable to promptly visit the hospital for a doctor to determine if treatment intervention is necessary.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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How to deal with neonatal jaundice hemolysis?

Neonatal hemolytic disease refers to alloimmune hemolysis caused by maternal-fetal blood type incompatibility, commonly seen in life with A, B, O blood type mismatches, and Rh blood type mismatch is less common. Once neonatal hemolytic disease is diagnosed, aggressive treatment must be pursued. Initially, phototherapy treatment is recommended, commonly referred to as blue light therapy. Additionally, medication therapy for the child is necessary, frequently involving albumin and intravenous immunoglobulin, along with the use of sodium bicarbonate to correct acidosis. If the aforementioned treatments do not yield satisfactory results, blood exchange treatment should be considered for the child. This mainly involves removing free antibodies and sensitized red blood cells from the blood, thereby alleviating hemolysis and ultimately achieving therapeutic goals. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
1min 9sec home-news-image

What should I do if the neonatal jaundice does not go away?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms in the neonatal period. It can be a physiological manifestation in the normal development process of newborns, but it can also be an external symptom of certain diseases. Generally, the duration of normal physiological jaundice should not exceed two weeks for full-term infants and four weeks for premature infants. If the jaundice lasts too long, recurs, or is severe, pathological jaundice should be considered. Pathological jaundice might be a manifestation of certain diseases, with bilirubin levels being one of the indicators. If it is accompanied by other discomforts, such as significant vomiting, abdominal distension or diarrhea, drowsiness, refusal to feed, or fever, this indicates a more serious condition. If the jaundice does not subside, it is recommended to seek prompt medical attention at a hospital. If there is a clear pathological cause, intervention and possibly inpatient treatment are required.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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What to do if a newborn has high jaundice?

If a newborn baby has high jaundice that exceeds normal values, it is considered pathological jaundice. Pathological jaundice requires timely intervention. It is generally recommended to go to the hospital, where a specialist in neonatology will conduct a thorough examination of the baby. If necessary, hospitalization or medication might be required for treatment. It is advised that parents should not handle high jaundice on their own, as they generally do not know when the newborn is in a pathological state. It is best to have a specialist doctor manage and treat the baby’s jaundice, and the specialist will also guide the treatment of the jaundice.