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Jaundice is a common condition in infants, but many parents are still concerned and lack sufficient information about this ailment. Consequently, numerous cases of jaundice have significantly impacted the health of babies. Let's explore information about jaundice in newborns, its potential dangers, and effective treatment methods.
Is Jaundice Dangerous for Newborns?
'Jaundice' is a folk term used to describe a prevalent health condition in young children, especially those under 5 years old. According to ancient beliefs, jaundice was thought to be caused by the child being exposed to bad energy or having bad luck during development.
However, in modern medicine, 'jaundice' is not a specific disease but rather a term describing the overall condition of young children. The main reasons for jaundice in newborns include a weak immune system, underdeveloped bodies, nutritional deficiencies, lack of physical activity, insufficient sleep, environmental influences, and various other factors.
Common Signs of Jaundice Include:
- Infants often cry, have difficulty sleeping, fuss, or startle during sleep.
- Children exhibit digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea.
- Babies may refuse to breastfeed or breastfeed less than usual.
- The baby's abdomen is swollen and rigid, or the child may exhibit rolling, crawling, or lifting legs.
- Infants often have a reduced appetite or eat less than usual.
- The child may also display other symptoms such as fever, cough, or watery eyes.
Above all, if jaundice in a baby is not properly cared for and treated, it can have adverse effects on the child's health. For example:
- Increased risk of infections: Newborns with jaundice often have a weak immune system, making them susceptible to infections. Improper care may lead to infections or the spread of dangerous pathogens.
- Nutritional problems: Newborns with jaundice often experience nutritional deficiencies due to poor digestion or loss of appetite, leading to malnutrition and reduced immunity.
- Impact on growth and development: Children may experience insufficient sleep, lack of physical activity, leading to detrimental effects on their growth and development.
Effective Treatment for Jaundice
According to folklore, there are some remedies that mothers and grandmothers apply when a child has jaundice, such as lighting a fire to burn bad spirits or applying red betel water to the baby's body. This helps ward off negative energy and heat when infected. Additionally, when the baby is under 6 months old, mothers should avoid taking the baby near a funeral to prevent exposure to cold air from the deceased.
Furthermore, there is a practice of correctly applying pressure on the jaundiced line to squeeze out all the impure blood, a method often performed by elders in the past. However, this is a dangerous measure with potential risks of infection when done at home. Since the tools are not properly sterilized, it is not advisable for mothers to attempt this on their own.
Therefore, to treat jaundice in newborns, mothers can apply some scientific methods as outlined below:
- Nutritional adjustment for the baby: Ensure the provision of essential nutrients for the child, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Particularly, supplement foods that boost the immune system, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, iron-rich foods, and vitamin C-rich foods.
To provide the best nutrients for the child's development, mothers can explore the TOP milk formulas that are refreshing and easy to consume, such as Morinaga milk, Meiji milk, Vinamilk, etc.
- Massage: Massaging your baby is a highly beneficial activity to promote comfort, relaxation, and contribute to the baby's development. Parents should regularly massage key points on the baby's body such as palms, soles, wrists, and knees...
- Medication: Specialized jaundice medications can be used under the supervision of a doctor. However, it is advisable to limit medication usage unless necessary to avoid potential side effects.
- Herbal Remedies: Some herbs like balsam pear, three-leafed chaste tree, and orchid flowers can help alleviate jaundice symptoms. Nevertheless, thorough research or consultation with a doctor is necessary before using them.
Through this, mothers can gain a better understanding of the issue of jaundice in newborns and its potential dangers. Additionally, mothers should apply jaundice treatment methods, whether traditional or scientific. However, before applying any treatment method for jaundice in newborns, thorough research and consultation with healthcare experts are crucial to ensure safety and effectiveness for both the baby and the mother!
