Jaundice occurs as a result of the increase in the blood level of a substance called bilirubin, which gives the skin its yellow color, and its accumulation in the skin. Newborn babies have high levels of red blood cells (red blood cells) at birth. Immediately after birth, these cells begin to break down and bilirubin is released. Since the newborn baby's liver is not yet capable of clearing bilirubin in the first days, its level may increase in the body and cause jaundice. This level may increase significantly in babies who are not fed enough in the first days.
Jaundice, which we consider physiological (natural), begins on the 3rd day, and lasts 5-7. It reaches its highest levels on days 15 and can last up to the 15th day. Neonatal jaundice is seen in 60% of term babies and 80% of premature babies. Jaundice that starts earlier or continues after the 15th day should be investigated!!!
Those with blood incompatibility, babies of diabetic mothers, premature babies, babies with a history of difficult birth are at a higher risk of developing jaundice.
Jaundice first begins in the whites of the eyes and on the face. As the level of bilirubin in the blood increases, it moves towards the chest, abdomen and legs. As the jaundice increases, the baby becomes sleepy, the baby does not want to breastfeed and wants to sleep. In this case, as excretion decreases due to decreased nutrition, bilirubin rises even more and a vicious cycle begins.
It is very important to consult a doctor as soon as you notice that your baby has jaundice. After the examination by your doctor; If he sees a risky situation for the baby, he will direct you to measure the bilirubin level in the blood. Although jaundice usually goes away on its own, in some cases it can reach very high levels and cause brain damage. Early detection and follow-up of jaundice is very important. At high values, you should be hospitalized and phototherapy treatment should be started. If left untreated, it may cause permanent problems.
UMBELLY CARE OF A NEWBORN BABY
One of the details that should be taken into consideration in newborn care is the cleaning of the umbilical cord. The umbilical cord, which falls off spontaneously within 1-3 weeks after birth, must be kept dry and clean during this period!!! Otherwise, it will be open to infections.
To prevent pee contact, the diaper should be tied so that the umbilical cord remains exposed. . The baby can be bathed before the belly falls off, but the umbilical cord should be protected while washing and dried immediately after bathing.
If we are sure to keep it dry and clean, there is no need to use any solution for maintenance. Sometimes your doctor may ask you to wipe the area around the umbilical cord with 70% ethyl alcohol solution 1-2 times a day! You should definitely consult your doctor!!! In such a case, we suspect inflammation.
If the umbilical cord has not fallen off in the third week, if the bleeding continues after the fall (there may be slight bleeding after the fall), if there is a bright yellow appearance in the navel after the fall and if there is discharge, consult a specialist physician.
GAS PAINS IN BABIES (INFANTILLE COLIC)
Colic; Our babies are around 2-3. Starting in weeks 3-4. These are bouts of crying and restlessness that last until the first month of life (sometimes it may take longer).
It is more common in male babies and formula-fed babies. Immaturity of the gastrointestinal system, the tensions experienced by the mother during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and the baby's exposure to too many stimuli (sound, noise, light, etc.) are cited as the reasons.
It usually starts in the afternoon or evening and lasts for about 3 hours. takes. Other than this time, the baby is completely normal. He experiences this situation at least 3 days a week. While the baby is crying, he pulls his legs together, clenches his hands into fists, his face turns red and he has a pained expression on his face. He may refuse to suckle at that time. The most important thing for the mother to do is to remain calm and try to comfort her baby. Hugging, walking around the house, singing a lullaby, wrapping a warm towel around his/her belly, and massaging can relax our baby.
If our baby is not relaxed in any way and if his/her crying continues throughout the day, middle ear infection, urinary tract infection, hunger, intestinal problems... It should be investigated!!!
The mother should stay away from gas-forming foods (spicy foods, dried legumes, drinks containing caffeine, acidic drinks, etc.), especially in the first month.
Drops used in treatment should not be used without consulting a pediatrician. should not be used, most have not been proven to be useful. Special formulas can be used when necessary for formula-fed babies. Herbal teas should not be given directly to the baby, they may have toxic effects!!!
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