How Effective Is Phototherapy in Treating Newborn Jaundice?

Not only are the adults, but newborn babies also prone to certain health conditions that everyone should be aware of. Neonatal jaundice is one of the conditions in which newborns are affected, according to the reports the prevalence of neonatal jaundice is from 60% - more than 90%. If this is the case, taking care and noticing the changes in them is very important only if it is diagnosed in its early stage the appropriate treatment be given to those infants before it becomes fatal for them. One of the most commonly preferred treatments to treat neonatal jaundice is phototherapy, to get to know how effective they are stick to the below content.

What is newborn jaundice?

Generally, jaundice is the condition that develops during excessive production of bilirubin, a yellow pigment in the blood as a result of normal breakdown of RBC. In those instances, in newborn infants the liver is not fully developed, the liver is going to work efficiently in processing the bilirubin but due to the not fully formed liver body may struggle to process the bilirubin. As a result, neonatal jaundice will arise, jaundice may be harmless but the build-up of high levels of bilirubin creates certain serious complications, even brain damage.

How does phototherapy work?

Phototherapy is a kind of treatment where light is allowed to break the bilirubin buildup in the baby’s body. During the therapy, the baby will be placed under the light usually it will be blue or white which changes the structure of the bilirubin and makes it simpler for the liver to break down and eliminate from the body. Naturally the baby's skin will be soft so it can absorb the light easily, here light converts the bilirubin into a water-soluble compound later excreted via stool and urine.

Effectiveness of phototherapy

When it comes to the effectiveness of phototherapy numerous studies and clinical reports proved the effectiveness of phototherapy in breaking down the bilirubin in a baby’s bloodstream. In the below content, key points are highlighted,

• As much as possible bilirubin in the blood should be processed to avoid its potential toxic effects over other body parts. In that case, phototherapy rapidly reduces the bilirubin buildup in blood within 24-48 hours.
• Phototherapy is generally non-invasive thus it is preferred as a first-line treatment procedure for neonates. The invasive procedures are risky especially when it is for newborns through phototherapy those risks could be avoided.
• Not only safe they also have a greater success rate, they are preferred to treat mild to moderate neonatal jaundice. The response of the therapy is quite surprising: the bilirubin levels also drop out to a safer level just in a few days of treatment.
• The therapy is completely safe with zero to minimal side effects which include dehydration and skin rashes that could be monitored and fixed.

Types of phototherapy

There are various types of phototherapy treatments based on the severity of the condition the type will be preferred,

• Conventional phototherapy makes use of fluorescent lamps or halogen light sources. The infant is going to be placed under the light and allowed to stay there with a diaper to increase their skin exposure.
• The fiberoptic is another type where a fiberoptic pad or blanket will be used that keeps emitting the light. Even while the baby is held or fed the pad is wrapped around so that the treatment will be maximized.
• LED phototherapy is also one of the types that is increasingly popular for its energy efficiency, lifespan, and less heat production. LED phototherapy is more effective in providing consistent and adequate light energy for bilirubin processing. 

Phototherapy is considered to be the cornerstone in the treatment of neonatal jaundice and they are preferred as first-line treatment for its effectiveness, safety, and non-invasive procedure. Overall, with a light source the bilirubin is converted to soluble components and excreted out of the body. Neonatal jaundice is not a worried condition when it is diagnosed and monitored in its early stage, so always prefer the best hospitals in the city to make sure your infant is safe at all levels.

Schedule an appointment at GEM Hospital for expert care and comprehensive treatment for neonatal jaundice. Our experienced specialists provide top-notch medical services to ensure your baby's health and safety. Book your appointment today to receive the best care for your newborn.