Phototherapy Treatment in India

Saanvi Sharma is a 3-day-old newborn,...

Saanvi Sharma is a 3-day-old newborn, the first child of excited but anxious parents. She was born full-term via normal delivery. Within 48 hours, a routine check revealed a yellowish tinge to her skin and eyes (jaundice). A blood test confirmed high levels of bilirubin (hyperbilirubinemia), a common condition in newborns where the liver is still maturing. The pediatrician explained that while mild jaundice is normal, Saanvi's levels were rising quickly and posed a risk of kernicterus, a rare but serious form of brain damage. The doctor recommended immediate phototherapy. Saanvi was placed under special blue spectrum lights in a warm, enclosed bassinet in the NICU, wearing only a diaper and protective eye patches. Her parents were heartbroken to see her under the lights, unable to hold her for long periods. They took turns sitting by her isolette, singing and talking to her during feeding breaks. After 24 hours of continuous treatment, her bilirubin levels dropped significantly. She was weaned off the lights and returned to her mother's arms for uninterrupted cuddles. The emotional journey was a rollercoaster, initial panic and fear for their fragile baby, feeling helpless seeing her isolated under the lights, followed by immense relief and joy when the treatment worked quickly and she was declared healthy, allowing them to finally begin their life as a family at home.