| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
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| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Breast milk jaundice |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Treatment: |
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Treatment will depend on the bilirubin level. In general, more frequent nursing (up to 12 times a day) will decrease the bilirubin level. If the bilirubin level is worrisome (greater than 20 mg/dL), a mother can stop nursing for 24 to 48 hours, which will result in a rapid drop of bilirubin. She can express the milk or pump her breasts (to maintain comfort and the flow of milk) and bottle feed the baby in the interim. When nursing is re-started, the bilirubin will not return to previous levels. Other measures, such as phototherapy, may be necessary with bilirubin levels greater than18 mg/dL (or if bilirubin levels are lower but rapidly increasing). |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Full recovery is expected with appropriate monitoring and treatment. |
| Complications: |
| There are usually no complications with appropriate monitoring and treatment. However, failure to obtain timely and proper medical care can have severe consequences. High bilirubin levels can be toxic to the baby's brain and other organs. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider immediately if you are breast feeding your baby and the baby becomes yellow (jaundiced). |
Bili lights |
Jaundice infant |
Infant jaundice |
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