What is considered high for neonatal jaundice?

Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

Updated on January 02, 2025

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Neonatal jaundice is common during the neonatal period and can be divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice does not require intervention or treatment, and the baby's condition is generally okay. For physiological jaundice, the bilirubin level typically does not exceed 6 within the first 24 hours after birth, then not exceeding 9 from 24 to 48 hours, not exceeding 12 from 48 to 72 hours, and not exceeding 15 after 72 hours. If the monitored bilirubin levels exceed these ranges, there may be pathological jaundice, indicating abnormally high levels.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 18sec

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How long should a newborn with jaundice be exposed to sunlight each day?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms in newborns, usually appearing early in the neonatal period. It is normal for babies to exhibit signs of jaundice, typically appearing on days 2-3, peaking around days 4-5, and then subsiding within two weeks. If the baby's jaundice levels are high and close to pathological values during the peak period, it's advisable to expose them to some sunlight. It's recommended to sunbathe the baby during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is gentle but not too hot or too cold outside, and when there is not much wind. Sunbathing for jaundice requires direct skin exposure without the interference of glass, so ideal times are from 10 to 11 A.M. or between 3 to 4 P.M., usually for about half an hour to one hour. Care should be taken to avoid direct sunlight on the eyes and if the skin shows obvious signs of reddening, sun exposure should be stopped to prevent sunburn, as newborn skin is delicate. If jaundice seems significantly worse or rebounds noticeably, it is recommended to see a doctor who can decide if medical intervention is necessary and treat the condition promptly.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 16sec

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Neonatal jaundice symptoms

Neonatal jaundice is most commonly seen in the skin and mucous membranes, and the sclera, or what we refer to as the eyes, presenting with a yellow discoloration of the white part. The most common symptom is yellowing of the skin. There may also be other symptoms such as crying and restlessness, fever, or rapid and irregular breathing. Some babies might sleep longer than usual, have difficulty feeding, or experience issues with bowel movements, such as a significant decrease in stool frequency or a reduction in urine output. These could be accompanying symptoms of neonatal jaundice. Each baby presents differently with jaundice; more accompanying symptoms often indicate a more severe condition. If the jaundice is limited to skin discoloration without other significant symptoms, it may indicate an early stage of the condition. Generally, if the jaundice is pronounced, it is considered pathological jaundice, and it is advisable to go to the hospital. A pediatric specialist can conduct relevant examinations and decide if immediate intervention and treatment are necessary.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min

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When does neonatal jaundice go away?

Neonatal jaundice is a common phenomenon in the newborn period, with 80% of full-term infants visibly exhibiting jaundice. Jaundice is divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. In full-term infants, physiological jaundice generally lasts about two weeks and ordinarily subsides within that time. For preterm infants, it typically does not last more than four weeks. However, if the jaundice progresses quickly, appears early, and is severe, reaching pathological levels, intervention and treatment are necessary. The duration of jaundice can vary depending on the baby’s condition. Without intervention, the duration of jaundice may be prolonged. Therefore, it is advisable to regularly monitor jaundice and actively intervene with treatment if abnormalities are present.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 16sec

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Do newborns with jaundice feel uncomfortable?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common symptoms during the newborn period. It can be a normal physiological phenomenon occurring in the baby's development process, or it may indicate some diseases. Neonatal jaundice is divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Generally, the degree of jaundice in physiological jaundice is not very high, and the general condition is still okay. The baby does not show any special discomfort. However, if it is pathological jaundice, the jaundice usually lasts longer and progresses faster with a more severe degree. There might be other discomforts, such as obvious crying and restlessness, possibly even fever, and other symptoms like sleepiness or refusal to feed. Therefore, if the jaundice is slightly high, the general condition is still manageable, and parents should not worry too much. However, if there are obvious discomforts, it is recommended to visit the hospital promptly because if a newborn baby gets sick and is not treated in time, the condition can progress quickly.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 14sec

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Neonatal jaundice, how many days can it completely subside?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms in newborns, especially in early newborns. Neonatal jaundice can be a normal physiological phenomenon, but it can also be a manifestation of certain diseases. Generally, if it is physiological jaundice in full-term babies, it usually resolves within about ten days, and generally lasts no longer than two weeks. In premature babies, it tends to last longer, generally not exceeding four weeks. However, if the jaundice persists for a long time, progresses quickly, and is severe, it may be pathological jaundice. Pathological jaundice might be associated with other discomforts, and in such cases, it is necessary to identify possible pathological factors and treat them accordingly to gradually control and reduce the jaundice. Therefore, if the jaundice persists for a long time, it is advisable to go to the hospital for some relevant tests to determine its nature, and if it is pathological jaundice, timely intervention and treatment are recommended.