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What should we know about jaundice?
Both me and my husband are expecting a baby girl next month. We are very excited, but we wanted to know about any issues that can occur once we give birth. We are particularly curious about jaundice. What should we understand about this disease, and how serious is it?
2 Answers
Many babies have a healthy degree of physiologic jaundice in the first few weeks of life, but some may have more exaggerated response, and may need light or other therapy. All babies will have their jaundice levels checked in the first 2-3 days of life.
Depends. Most jaundice is mild and self resolves or requires only phototherapy. If there are blood group incompatibilities or other causes of excess red cell destruction it can be more concerning. Bilirubin levels (usually done with a transcutaneous device) should be checked and plotted on a chart to see what therapy, if any, is needed.