JAUNDICE IN NEONATAL BABIES

Jaundice is a common condition among premature babies, but usually, it disappears on its own within two or three weeks. You can also minimize the symptoms of jaundice in your infant by trying these simple tips.

THE SYMPTOMS

- The baby has yellow eyes and yellow skin

- Is unable to drink/not showing interest in milk

- Is very sleepy

- Have a high-pitched cry

- Passing dark, yellow urine (normal baby urine is colorless)

- Passing pale stool (greenish-yellow or greenish mustard)

A note to remember: Excessive crying, feeling sleepy, and poor at feeding is not just limited to jaundice. Consult a doctor before coming to any conclusion.

HOME REMEDIES

- Your baby's pediatrician will suggest the correct medical treatment, but you can also minimize the symptoms by trying these home remedies.

- Feed regularly: Feed breast milk at least 8-12 times a day. It contains all the nutrients and antibodies for the baby to fight the health condition. Formula-fed babies should have about 30 to 60 milliliters of formula every two to three hours for the first week.

EXPOSE THE BABY TO SUNLIGHT

Jaundice is caused by excessive bilirubin in your baby's blood. The sunlight helps in breaking down the indirect bilirubin which your baby's liver can later remove easily.

Do not place the baby in direct sunlight. Place your baby near a well-lit window for 10 minutes and twice a day.

EXTRA SUPPLEMENTS

If your baby has trouble in breastfeeding, ask the doctor to give him/her formula milk. Sometimes, doctors may suggest fortified vitamins and minerals along with milk to reduce the symptoms.