[Medical Q&A] Neonatal jaundice: Can jaundice be reduced by sun exposure?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Niu Chao, deputy chief physician, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University

Neonatal jaundice refers to a disease characterized by yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes and sclera due to abnormal bilirubin metabolism in the neonatal period. About 60% of full-term infants and 80% of premature infants will experience jaundice.

Neonatal jaundice is divided into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice usually appears 2 to 3 days after birth, reaches its peak 4 to 6 days, and disappears 7 to 10 days. It may last a little longer in premature infants. Except for a slight loss of appetite, there are generally no other clinical symptoms. Pathological jaundice appears earlier, often within 24 hours after birth, or reappears and disappears. The degree of jaundice is severe and lasts for a long time. It may be accompanied by abnormal manifestations such as drowsiness, refusal to feed, vomiting, and convulsions.

The blue and green light components in sunlight have a certain conversion effect on bilirubin. Appropriate sunlight exposure can promote the metabolism and excretion of bilirubin in newborns, which helps to reduce jaundice. However, it should be noted that the effect of sunbathing on reducing jaundice is very limited. On the one hand, the dose of blue light that can be irradiated to the skin during sunbathing is much lower than the dose of professional blue light therapy equipment in hospitals. In addition, newborns have delicate skin and are prone to sunburn if exposed to the sun for a long time. It may also cause problems such as high body temperature and dehydration. On the other hand, the skin needs to be fully exposed during sunbathing, but it is difficult to completely unblock it in actual operation. Parts such as the eyes and perineum must be protected, which further reduces the effective irradiation area.

For physiological jaundice, special treatment is generally not required. Feeding should be strengthened to ensure that the baby consumes enough milk, promote frequent bowel movements, and help the excretion of bilirubin. Closely observe the changes in jaundice. If the jaundice gradually subsides within a normal period of time, there is no need to worry too much. If pathological jaundice is suspected, medical treatment should be sought promptly. The doctor will choose the appropriate treatment method based on the severity of jaundice, the baby's age, weight and other factors, such as blue light irradiation therapy, drug therapy, and severe cases may require blood transfusion therapy. Blue light irradiation is currently the most commonly used and effective method for treating neonatal jaundice. Under the professional care of medical staff, it can safely and effectively reduce bilirubin levels.