Physiologic jaundice definitions
| Word backwards | cigoloisyhp ecidnuaj |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The part of speech of the word "physiologic" is an adjective, while the word "jaundice" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | phy-si-o-log-ic jan-dice |
| Plural | The plural of physiologic jaundice is physiologic jaundices. |
| Total letters | 19 |
| Vogais (5) | i,o,a,u,e |
| Consonants (10) | p,h,y,s,l,g,c,j,n,d |
Physiologic jaundice, also known as physiological jaundice, is a common condition in newborns characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. This type of jaundice typically appears in the first few days of life and is considered a normal response to the infant's immature liver function.
Causes of Physiologic Jaundice
Physiologic jaundice occurs when red blood cells break down and the liver is unable to process the bilirubin efficiently. The buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream leads to the characteristic yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes in newborns. Factors such as a higher-than-normal number of red blood cells at birth or a shorter lifespan of fetal red blood cells can contribute to the development of physiologic jaundice.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of physiologic jaundice is yellowing of the skin and eyes. Other signs may include poor feeding, lethargy, and dark urine. In most cases, physiologic jaundice is a temporary and benign condition that resolves on its own without any treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A healthcare provider can diagnose physiologic jaundice through a physical examination and blood tests to measure the levels of bilirubin in the newborn's blood. In most cases, treatment for physiologic jaundice is not necessary as the condition typically improves as the baby's liver matures and is able to process bilirubin more efficiently. However, in severe cases, phototherapy may be recommended to help lower bilirubin levels.
Bilirubin is a yellow compound produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells in the body. Newborns are more susceptible to developing jaundice due to their immature liver function.
Overall, physiologic jaundice is a common and usually harmless condition in newborns that typically resolves on its own. However, it is essential for parents to monitor their baby's symptoms and seek medical attention if jaundice persists or worsens to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Physiologic jaundice Examples
- Physiologic jaundice is a common condition in newborns caused by the breakdown of red blood cells.
- Babies with physiologic jaundice may have a yellowish tint to their skin and eyes.
- Treatment for physiologic jaundice often involves phototherapy to help break down the bilirubin in the baby's blood.
- Physiologic jaundice typically appears within the first week of life and resolves on its own within a few weeks.
- Breastfeeding can sometimes contribute to the development of physiologic jaundice in newborns.
- Monitoring bilirubin levels is important in assessing the severity of physiologic jaundice in infants.
- Physiologic jaundice is usually not harmful and does not indicate a more serious underlying health issue.
- Increased levels of bilirubin in the blood can lead to physiologic jaundice in infants.
- Physiologic jaundice is different from pathologic jaundice, which may indicate a more serious medical condition.
- It is important for parents to understand the causes and management of physiologic jaundice in newborns.