Yes, jaundice can make you sleepy, especially in newborn babies.
Jaundice, characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes, often indicates an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood. While jaundice can affect people of all ages, it is most common in newborns. One of the symptoms observed in newborns with jaundice is increased sleepiness or lethargy.
Here's a breakdown of why this happens:
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Bilirubin's Effect: High levels of bilirubin can have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, leading to increased drowsiness.
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Feeding Difficulties: Jaundice can sometimes cause babies to have less energy and less interest in feeding. Poor feeding can further contribute to sleepiness and lethargy. This can, unfortunately, lead to a cycle where decreased feeding increases bilirubin levels, which, in turn, increases sleepiness and decreased feeding.
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Dehydration: In some cases, if the baby is not feeding well due to jaundice, dehydration can set in, further exacerbating the sleepiness.
It's crucial to monitor newborns for signs of jaundice, including sleepiness, and seek medical advice promptly. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications.
