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This disorder can happen to newborns in which case it is fairly normal as the liver has to suddenly function on its own and it has a few teething problems. In rare cases, excessive amounts of bilirubin can damage the child's brain. So even though it is normally harmless in these cases, it must still be checked out by your doctor.
If the jaundice is the result of a disorder, it is usually more serious. The liver malfunctioning (in the case of cirrhosis ) can cause this problem.
Other factors or conditions that can disrupt liver function and lead to jaundice include hepatitis, certain drugs and toxins, pregnancy, and congestive heart failure. In some cases, gallstones can also cause it.
If jaundice shows up in school-age children or adults, the doctor may take a blood sample to check for liver damage.
Traditional Treatment
Usually the best way to treat this disorder is to pinpoint the cause. Your doctor will examine you and give you an indication of what is going wrong with your liver.
If your baby has jaundice as a result of an illness he or she will have to be hospitalised and treated accordingly.
Treatment for illness-related jaundice in older children and adults will depend on the cause.
Alternative/Natural Treatment
The underlying cause must be known before any treatment can occur.
Chinese Herbs - A Chinese practitioner may treat jaundice with various combinations of herbs. These remedies must be prepared only by a trained professional.
Herbal Therapies - Various herbs, including dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), vervain (Verbena officinalis), and milk thistle (Silybum marianum), are used for this complaint.
Homoeopathy - A number of homoeopathic remedies are appropriate for treating jaundice; the exact prescription will depend on the underlying cause. Consult a homoeopath for the preparations and dosages that are right for you.