What is a kernicterus?
Kerincterus is a severe damage to the child’s brain caused by abnormally high concentrations of bilirubin or indirect bilirubin. Indirect bilirubin has not yet been processed in the liver and, due to its special property, can cross the so-called blood–brain barrier. Various diseases can cause an unusually high increase in bilirubin in newborns.
Usually the children are then treated with phototherapy. In severe cases a blood exchange transfusion is also performed. If the icterus remains untreated or if enormously high indirect bilirubin values are shown, the development of a nuclear icterus can also occur. The possible serious consequences of a kernicterus include a possible visual and hearing disorder, a reduction in intelligence and motor, i.e. muscle-related movement disorders in the newborn.
What is an icterus prolongatus?
This is understood to be an increased bilirubin value in the blood with an accompanying icterus in newborns, which persists even after the 10th day of life. Usually the icterus appears naturally between the 3-8 days of life. Beyond this time, elevated bilirubin levels in newborns may indicate the presence of a disorder or disease. As in adults, there are many causes and a medical examination is essential to detect any existing diseases.
Is it allowed to drink alcohol if I have jaundice?
The consumption of alcohol during an existing jaundice is generally not recommended. The liver is part of the metabolic process for breaking down alcohol and can already be heavily loaded in the case of jaundice. Alcohol consumption should be avoided, especially if the cause of the condition is in the liver itself, e.g. hepatitis.
After finding the cause and successful therapy, alcohol can be consumed by the affected person in a healthy amount again. This is best done in consultation with the doctor, as the liver must be in a perfect condition for alcohol consumption.
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