my niece diagnosed with S.Bilirubin 17. what should we do ? he is just 8 days old

Question

Accepted Answer

A bilirubin level of 17 in a newborn (total serum bilirubin) is higher than the normal range, and this could be indicative of jaundice, a common condition in newborns. Newborn jaundice occurs when there is a build-up of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced by the breakdown of red blood cells.

In newborns, bilirubin levels usually peak around 3-5 days of life, but if they continue to rise, they can cause concern. Since your niece is 8 days old, it’s important to monitor her condition closely. Here’s what you can do:

1. Consult with the Pediatrician:

Immediate consultation: Since the bilirubin level is on the higher side, it’s crucial to consult her pediatrician as soon as possible. The doctor will assess her condition and may suggest further tests to evaluate the cause of jaundice and determine if treatment is necessary.

2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy):

Common treatment: Phototherapy is the most common treatment for jaundice in newborns. It involves exposing the baby to special blue lights that help break down bilirubin in the skin.

Follow the doctor’s advice: If the bilirubin level is significantly high, the pediatrician may recommend hospital-based phototherapy or, in some cases, home phototherapy, depending on the severity.

3. Monitor Feeding:

Frequent feeding: Ensure that your niece is breastfeeding frequently (every 2-3 hours). This helps promote regular bowel movements, which is important for clearing bilirubin from the body. If breastfeeding is not sufficient, the pediatrician may recommend formula feeding or supplementation.

4. Hydration:

Ensure hydration: Make sure the baby is well-hydrated, as dehydration can worsen jaundice. Encourage regular feeding (whether breastfeeding or formula feeding) to maintain hydration.

5. Follow-Up Testing:

Recheck bilirubin levels: The pediatrician may recommend a follow-up bilirubin test after a couple of days to monitor how the levels are progressing. If the levels are rising, additional treatments may be required.

6. Keep an Eye on Symptoms:

Watch for worsening symptoms: Keep track of the baby’s symptoms. If you notice any signs of worsening jaundice (such as the yellow color spreading to the arms, legs, or torso) or if the baby becomes lethargic, difficult to wake up, or feeds poorly, seek immediate medical attention.

7. In some cases, further treatments may be needed:

Exchange transfusion: In rare and severe cases where phototherapy is not effective, a blood exchange transfusion may be necessary, but this is a more intensive treatment that would be decided by the pediatrician based on the baby's bilirubin levels.

8. Consider the Cause:

The doctor may want to identify the underlying cause of the elevated bilirubin (such as breastfeeding jaundice, blood group incompatibility, or liver issues) to ensure appropriate treatment.

Conclusion:

Jaundice in newborns is common and usually resolves with proper treatment and monitoring. It is important to act quickly by consulting the pediatrician to manage the bilirubin levels and avoid complications. With timely intervention, most newborns recover fully.

Make sure you follow the pediatrician’s recommendations for treatment and follow-up care.