What is it Neonatal Jaundice
Neonatal jaundice is yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes in newborn babies.
It happens due to high bilirubin levels (a yellow pigment produced during breakdown of red blood cells).
Most babies get some jaundice (physiological jaundice), but in some cases it may be severe and dangerous.
Causes
- Physiological jaundice – common, harmless, due to immature liver.
- Breastfeeding jaundice – due to inadequate feeding.
- Breast milk jaundice – some chemicals in breast milk slow bilirubin breakdown.
- Hemolysis (excess RBC breakdown) – blood group incompatibility (Rh or ABO).
- Liver or bile duct problems – rare (biliary atresia, infections, metabolic disorders).
Symptoms
- Yellow skin and eyes (first face, then chest, then body).
- Baby is too sleepy or difficult to wake.
- Poor feeding.
- In severe cases → irritability, high-pitched cry, fits.
Complications
If bilirubin rises too much → it can cross into the brain → Kernicterus (permanent brain damage).
So early detection is very important.
Treatment
- Mild jaundice → usually resolves naturally.
- Moderate to severe →
- Phototherapy (blue light therapy).
- Exchange transfusion in very severe cases.
Homeopathic Perspective
Homeopathy helps by:
- Supporting liver and bile metabolism.
- Enhancing detoxification.
- Preventing long-term liver weakness.
Common remedies (case-based):
- Chelidonium – liver weakness, jaundice with lethargy.
- Carduus Marianus – liver protector.
- Chamomilla – irritable baby, colicky with jaundice.
- China (Cinchona) – weakness from blood-related jaundice.
- Nux Vomica – liver stress, drug-induced jaundice.
In newborns, homeopathy should be given only under professional guidance, along with pediatric monitoring.
Parental Advice
- Expose baby to mild morning sunlight (helps bilirubin breakdown).
- Ensure proper breastfeeding (frequent feeds).
- Watch for signs: excessive sleepiness, poor feeding, high-pitched cry → seek doctor immediately.
- Avoid self-medicating newborns.
Summary
Neonatal jaundice is very common but usually harmless.
Severe cases need urgent hospital care.
Homeopathy can support liver function and recovery, but should be combined with medical supervision.
