Who discovered cure for jaundice?
This treatment for newborn babies was invented in the 1950s by a clever nurse named Sister Jean Ward who was in charge of the Premature Unit at Rochford General Hospital in Essex, England. She realized that sunlight reduced jaundice in newborns and premature infants.
Are most babies born with jaundice?
Jaundice is 1 of the most common conditions that can affect newborn babies. It’s estimated 6 out of every 10 babies develop jaundice, including 8 out of 10 babies born prematurely before the 37th week of pregnancy. But only around 1 in 20 babies has a blood bilirubin level high enough to need treatment.
Is jaundice long life?
The authors explain that prolonged exposure to elevated bilirubin levels can cause developmental problems which can persist for the rest of the child’s life. Many infants have some degree of jaundice, which usually clears up within a week of being born.
How was phototherapy discovered?
The use of phototherapy was first discovered, accidentally, at Rochford Hospital in Essex, England, when a nurse, Sister Jean Ward, noticed that babies exposed to sunlight had reduced jaundice, and a pathologist, Dr. Perryman, who noticed that a vial of blood left in the sun had turned green.
What does it mean if a baby is born with jaundice?
Infant jaundice occurs because the baby’s blood contains an excess of bilirubin (bil-ih-ROO-bin), a yellow pigment of red blood cells. Infant jaundice is a common condition, particularly in babies born before 38 weeks’ gestation (preterm babies) and some breast-fed babies.
How can I reduce my bilirubin?
Quick tips
- Drink at least eight glasses of fluids per day.
- Consider adding milk thistle to your routine.
- Opt for fruits like papaya and mango, which are rich in digestive enzymes.
- Eat at least 2 1/2 cups of veggies and 2 cups of fruit per day.
- Look for high-fiber foods, such as oatmeal, berries, and almonds.