Final answer:
The most common treatment for jaundice is phototherapy, though treatment options vary based on the type and cause of the jaundice. Surgery, medication, or dietary changes may be required in cases where phototherapy is not suitable.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common treatment for jaundice, especially in newborns, is phototherapy. This treatment involves exposing the baby to a type of light which helps to break down the excess bilirubin in the skin. The effectiveness of phototherapy depends on the severity and cause of jaundice. Other treatments such as medication, surgery, or dietary changes may be indicated based on the underlying condition leading to jaundice. For example, obstructive jaundice may necessitate surgical intervention, while hemolytic jaundice might be managed with medication to address the excessive breakdown of red blood cells.
Jaundice is a condition classified by elevated levels of bilirubin which can give the skin and mucous membranes a yellow coloration. The classification of jaundice helps to determine the appropriate treatment: pre-hepatic (hemolytic), hepatic (parenchymatous), and post-hepatic (obstructive).