Blue-light phototherapy is used to treat jaundice in the hospital. Your baby will be kept undressed under the phototherapy lights for about 24 hours, and taken out for feeding and change of diapers. Blue light can be given using an overhead bank of lights, or via a blanket-like device. Each has its own advantages.
During phototherapy, some babies may need supplemental fluids if recommended by the doctor. Generally, you can continue to breastfeed. If you are separated from your baby during this period, remember to continue expressing your breast milk 6 to 8 times every 24 hours to maintain your milk supply and prevent engorgement.
In the minority of cases where bilirubin levels increase rapidly to very high levels, a blood exchange therapy is performed to lower bilirubin levels in the hope of preventing brain damage.
Giving water or glucose feeds will not lower the jaundice. Sunlight does not effectively reduce the Jaundice. No oral or tropical medicine is available to decrease the Jaundice. Since bilirubin is excreted from the body in the stools, breastfeed your baby frequently to encourage frequent bowel movement.