Newborn jaundice is a common condition that affects many infants shortly after birth. It’s characterized by the yellowing of a baby’s skin and eyes due to an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.
While jaundice check is typically harmless, in some cases, it can lead to serious complications if not detected and treated early. At Rakan Iman Klinik, we emphasize the importance of early jaundice check to ensure your newborn receives timely care for a healthy start in life.
What is Jaundice in Newborns?
Jaundice occurs when a newborn’s liver is not yet mature enough to effectively remove bilirubin from the blood. This results in the yellowing of the skin and eyes, typically appearing between the second and fourth day after birth. While some level of jaundice is normal, particularly in premature babies, monitoring is crucial to ensure it does not progress into more severe conditions.
The key symptoms of jaundice include:
- Yellowing of the skin, starting from the face and then spreading to the chest, stomach, and legs.
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes.
- Lethargy or sluggishness.
- Difficulty feeding or poor weight gain.
If you notice these signs in your baby, it’s important to seek a jaundice check at Rakan Iman Klinik to ensure appropriate management.
Why Early Jaundice Detection is Important
Early detection of jaundice can significantly reduce the risk of complications. When left untreated, high bilirubin levels can lead to a condition called kernicterus, which can cause brain damage and other long-term neurological issues. That’s why it’s essential to get your baby checked early, especially in the first few days of life when jaundice check is most likely to develop.
At Rakan Iman Klinik, we prioritise early detection to help parents stay informed about their baby’s health. Timely checks allow our healthcare team to manage jaundice effectively, ensuring that bilirubin levels are monitored and treated before they reach dangerous levels.
Jaundice Check Process at Rakan Iman Klinik
At Rakan Iman Klinik, we use the latest methods to screen for jaundice and ensure your baby is in good hands. The jaundice check process includes the following:
- Visual Inspection
Our experienced healthcare professionals will visually assess your baby for any signs of yellowing on the skin and eyes. This is usually the first step in identifying jaundice. - Bilirubin Blood Test
If jaundice is suspected, a small blood sample will be taken from your baby’s heel to measure the level of bilirubin in their blood. This test helps us determine whether treatment is needed. - Transcutaneous Bilirubin Meter
In some cases, a transcutaneous bilirubin metre may be used. This device measures bilirubin levels through the skin, offering a painless and quick alternative to blood testing.
Our team ensures that all checks are done in a safe and comfortable environment for both the baby and the parents. We aim to make the experience as stress-free as possible, while providing accurate results.
Jaundice Treatment Options for Newborns
If your baby’s bilirubin levels are elevated, there are several treatment options available at Rakan Iman Klinik:
Phototherapy
Phototherapy is the most common treatment for jaundice check. It involves placing the baby under a special blue light that helps break down bilirubin in the skin. This treatment is safe, effective, and can often be done in the comfort of your home or at our clinic, depending on the severity of the jaundice.
Exchange Transfusion
For more severe cases, an exchange transfusion may be necessary. This involves replacing some of the baby’s blood with fresh blood to quickly lower bilirubin levels. This is usually reserved for very high-risk situations, and our team will ensure your baby is closely monitored throughout the process.
Home Care Tips
In mild cases of jaundice, treatment may not be necessary, and home care is sufficient. Frequent feedings can help lower bilirubin levels naturally. Make sure your baby is feeding every 2 to 3 hours to promote regular bowel movements, which help remove bilirubin from the body. Regular check-ups at Rakan Iman Klinik will help ensure that the condition is improving as expected.
Rakan Iman Klinik’s Expertise in Newborn Care
At Rakan Iman Klinik, we are dedicated to providing exceptional maternal and child healthcare services, including comprehensive jaundice checks for newborns. Our experienced healthcare team is trained to identify, manage, and treat jaundice to ensure your baby’s well-being.
We take pride in offering personalised care for every family, ensuring that parents feel supported and informed throughout the process. With state-of-the-art facilities and a compassionate team, Rakan Iman Klinik is the trusted choice for newborn health services.
Conclusion
Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, it can be easily managed. At Rakan Iman Klinik, we provide comprehensive jaundice checks and treatments to ensure your newborn stays healthy. Don’t wait—book your jaundice check today to give your baby the best start in life.