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Index:
Introduction
Newborn jaundice is a common concern for many parents in Malaysia. Seeing your baby’s skin and eyes turn yellow can be alarming, but in most cases, it’s a temporary and harmless condition. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you take the right steps to ensure your baby’s health and recovery. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about newborn jaundice, including when to seek medical help and where to find treatment in Malaysia.
What is Jaundice in Newborns?
Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, causing a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes. It happens due to high bilirubin levels, a substance produced when red blood cells break down. Most cases are harmless, but some may require treatment.
Causes of Jaundice in Newborns
Jaundice occurs when the baby's liver isn't mature enough to process bilirubin efficiently. Common causes include:
Physiological Jaundice – The most common type, appearing 2-4 days after birth and resolving within two weeks.
Breastfeeding Jaundice – Happens when babies don’t get enough breast milk, leading to dehydration and slower bilirubin removal.
Breast Milk Jaundice – A rare condition where substances in breast milk slow bilirubin processing in some babies.
Hemolysis (Blood Incompatibility) – When the mother’s and baby’s blood types don’t match, the baby’s red blood cells break down faster.
Liver Disease or Infections – Conditions like hepatitis or biliary atresia prevent proper bilirubin removal.
Symptoms of Jaundice in Babies
Look out for these signs:
Yellowish skin and eyes (starting from the face and moving downward)
Dark yellow urine (instead of clear or pale)
Pale or clay-colored stools
Excessive sleepiness or difficulty waking up
Poor feeding or irritability
💡 Quick Tip: Gently press your baby’s forehead or nose—if the skin appears yellow, it could be jaundice. Consult a doctor for confirmation!
When to Seek Medical Help?
Most cases resolve naturally, but seek immediate medical attention if:
Jaundice appears within the first 24 hours of birth
The yellowing spreads rapidly or worsens
Baby is extremely lethargic, feeding poorly, or losing weight
Baby has high-pitched crying or unusual body stiffness
🚨 Severe jaundice can lead to brain damage (kernicterus) if untreated! Always consult a pediatrician if unsure.
Treatment Options for Jaundice in Malaysia
Most mild cases do not require treatment. However, if bilirubin levels are high, doctors may recommend:
1. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
How it works: Special blue light breaks down bilirubin into a form the baby can excrete.
Where to get it: Available in hospitals and home jaundice lamp rental services.
Cost in Malaysia: RM100 – RM500 for rentals, higher for hospital stays.
2. Increased Feeding (Breastfeeding or Formula)
Encourages bilirubin removal through stool and urine.
Doctors recommend feeding every 2-3 hours to help clear jaundice faster.
3. Exchange Transfusion (Severe Cases)
Only for very high bilirubin levels that could cause complications.
Blood is replaced with healthy donor blood to rapidly reduce bilirubin.
Where to Rent Jaundice Lamps in Malaysia?
If your doctor recommends home phototherapy, you can rent jaundice lamps from:
Lampu Jaundice (https://www.lampujaundice.my/)
Sono Ultrasound (https://sono-ultrasound.com/product/home-phototherapy-light-rental/)
Hospitals & Clinics offering home treatment services
FAQs About Jaundice in Newborns
✅ How long does jaundice last in newborns?
Most cases resolve within 1-2 weeks, but breast milk jaundice can last up to 12 weeks.
✅ Is jaundice dangerous for newborns?
Mild jaundice is harmless, but severe untreated jaundice can lead to brain damage (kernicterus).
✅ Can I treat jaundice at home?
Yes! Frequent feeding and home phototherapy rental can help. However, consult a doctor first.
✅ Does sunlight help cure jaundice?
Indirect sunlight may help, but medical phototherapy is much more effective and recommended by doctors.
✅ How much does jaundice treatment cost in Malaysia?
Hospital phototherapy: RM800 – RM2,000+
Home jaundice lamp rental: RM100 – RM500
Conclusion
Jaundice in newborns is a common condition, and in most cases, it resolves on its own. However, it’s important for parents to monitor their baby’s symptoms and seek medical advice if needed. With the right care, feeding, and treatment options like phototherapy or home jaundice lamps, your little one will recover safely. If you’re unsure, always consult a pediatrician for guidance.
By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your baby gets the best start in life! 😊
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