Can newborns with jaundice eat probiotics?

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on April 28, 2025
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Neonatal jaundice can be treated with probiotics. Probiotics primarily help establish a normal gut flora in newborns. Once the gut flora is established, bacteria break down bilirubin into urobilinogen, significantly reducing bilirubin's circulation in the liver, which aids in alleviating jaundice. Clinical studies have shown that formulations such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium can alter the intestinal environment and reduce jaundice, especially breast milk jaundice, serving as an adjunct treatment. The reduction of jaundice with live bacteria treatment has proven effective, so probiotics can be used for neonatal jaundice.

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

When does neonatal jaundice completely disappear?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common conditions in newborns. Due to the metabolic characteristics of bilirubin in newborns, about 50%-60% of full-term infants and 80% of preterm infants experience jaundice. Jaundice is categorized into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. If it is physiological jaundice, the duration typically does not exceed two weeks in full-term infants, and in preterm infants, it can extend up to three to four weeks, generally not exceeding four weeks. If the jaundice progresses quickly and is severe, and if its resolution is delayed, there might be an underlying pathological jaundice. Pathological jaundice may involve certain pathological factors, necessitating a hospital visit. Based on the baby’s specific conditions, targeted examinations should be conducted, and treatment should focus on the underlying cause to actively manage the jaundice. The length of time jaundice takes to resolve may vary depending on the cause or the condition of the baby. How the jaundice subsides depends on the condition. If pathological jaundice is not promptly managed, the severity of the jaundice may increase, and there may be a risk of severe complications. Therefore, if the jaundice level is high and parents are unsure, it is advised to have it checked at a hospital. If pathological jaundice is confirmed, timely intervention and treatment are necessary.

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Written by Shi Ji Peng
Pediatrics
1min 11sec home-news-image

What are the symptoms of neonatal jaundice?

Neonatal jaundice generally appears on the 2nd to 3rd day after birth and can manifest with yellowing of the skin, conjunctiva, and oral mucosa. The degree of jaundice varies, usually more noticeable on the face and chest, but not present on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet. It is most apparent on the 4th to 6th day after birth. The duration of jaundice also varies; in full-term infants, jaundice typically subsides within 10-14 days after birth, whereas in premature infants, it can last until the third or even the fourth week. During this period, infants with physiological jaundice are generally in good condition without any other discomfort and do not require treatment. However, pathological jaundice must be investigated for its cause. Pathological jaundice is primarily characterized by an early onset, severe degree, prolonged duration, or recurrence of jaundice. In such cases, it is classified as pathological jaundice, and it is crucial to actively search for the cause and treat accordingly based on the identified cause.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Do newborns with jaundice love to sleep?

In newborns with jaundice, it is important to determine whether it is physiological or pathological jaundice. Typically, babies with normal physiological jaundice are generally in good condition, able to eat and sleep well. If they are hungry or uncomfortable, they will cry and wake up. However, if a baby continuously sleeps without waking up for a long period of time, does not wake up even when stimulated, it might indicate a condition of excessive sleepiness, which then falls into a pathological state. If the jaundice significantly worsens and affects the brain, it is often referred to as bilirubin encephalopathy, which might initially manifest as excessive sleepiness. Severe infections or other diseases can also present excessive sleepiness as a symptom. Therefore, if you notice that the baby is sleeping significantly more than usual, and appears lethargic and unresponsive, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
1min 17sec home-news-image

neonatal jaundice standard values

Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms during the neonatal period. It can be a normal physiological phenomenon or a manifestation of certain diseases. Jaundice is generally divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice does not appear very early, progresses slowly, lasts a short time, and is not very severe. Generally, for jaundice monitoring, it is recommended that newborns be closely monitored for changes in jaundice. Jaundice within 24 hours after birth generally does not exceed 6 milligrams per deciliter. From 24 to 48 hours, it generally does not exceed 9, and from 48 to 72 hours it does not exceed 12. After 72 hours, the jaundice level should not exceed 15. If monitoring shows that the jaundice level exceeds the normal range, it is advisable to go to the hospital promptly. The doctor will then determine the specifics of bilirubin levels in the blood. If bilirubin in the blood is indeed elevated, timely intervention and treatment are recommended.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Will newborn jaundice cause the ears to turn yellow?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms in neonates, especially in early newborns. It can be a symptom of normal development in newborns, or it can be a manifestation of certain diseases. Jaundice is generally divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice, with the main symptom being the yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes. Typically, jaundice starts from the face and then spreads to the trunk and limbs. If the degree of jaundice is relatively severe, yellowing will appear on the entire body, including the ears. Generally, if the baby is visibly yellow, it is advisable to monitor the jaundice. If the jaundice value is significantly high and confirmed to be high in the blood, it is considered pathological jaundice, and it is recommended to seek timely intervention and treatment.