Neonatal jaundice occurs when bilirubin levels in a newborn’s blood become too high, leading to a yellowing of the skin and eyes. While mild jaundice often resolves on its own, higher bilirubin levels require treatment to prevent complications such as kernicterus (brain damage).
📌 Fact: Phototherapy is the most widely used and effective non-invasive treatment for neonatal jaundice, helping to break down bilirubin safely.
💡 What Is Phototherapy and How Does It Work?
Phototherapy is a treatment that uses blue light to help the baby’s body break down bilirubin into a form that can be excreted through urine and stool. Since newborns have immature livers, this process speeds up bilirubin elimination and prevents toxic buildup.
🔹 Types of Phototherapy
🔹 Conventional Phototherapy – Baby is placed under blue light lamps while wearing eye protection.
🔹 Fiber-Optic (Bili Blanket) Phototherapy – A light-emitting pad is wrapped around the baby, allowing for mobility while receiving treatment.
🔹 Intensive Phototherapy – Used for babies with dangerously high bilirubin levels, combining multiple light sources for faster results.
📌 Fact: Phototherapy is completely safe and does not involve UV radiation.
🩺 When Is Phototherapy Needed?
Doctors decide to start phototherapy based on the baby’s:
✔ Bilirubin levels – Measured with a blood test.
✔ Gestational age – Preterm babies may need treatment at lower bilirubin levels.
✔ Symptoms – Signs of worsening jaundice or risk of kernicterus.
📌 Fact: Phototherapy is most effective when started early and continued until bilirubin levels drop to a safe range.
⚠️ Is Phototherapy Safe? Any Side Effects?
Phototherapy is non-invasive and highly effective, but minor side effects can include:
🔸 Mild dehydration – Increased water loss through the skin (easily managed with extra feedings).
🔸 Temporary loose stools – A sign that bilirubin is being excreted.
🔸 Slight skin darkening – Fades after treatment ends.
📌 Fact: Most babies respond to phototherapy within 24-48 hours, with bilirubin levels dropping significantly.
📌 Final Thoughts
Phototherapy is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment for neonatal jaundice, helping to lower bilirubin levels and prevent complications like kernicterus. With proper monitoring, most babies recover quickly and safely.
