Jaundice in Newborns

Neonatal Jaundice

Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns, characterized by a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes. This yellowing results from elevated levels of bilirubin, a pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. In healthy newborns, jaundice typically appears between the second and third day after birth and resolves without treatment within one to two weeks. (mayoclinic.org)

Causes

The primary cause of neonatal jaundice is the immaturity of the newborn's liver, which is less efficient at processing bilirubin. This leads to a buildup of unconjugated bilirubin in the bloodstream. Other factors that can contribute to jaundice include:

• Premature birth: Babies born before 38 weeks may have underdeveloped livers, making it harder to process bilirubin. (mayoclinic.org)

• Breastfeeding difficulties: Inadequate milk intake can lead to dehydration and reduced bowel movements, both of which can elevate bilirubin levels. (mayoclinic.org)

• Blood type incompatibility: If there's a mismatch between the mother's and baby's blood types, it can cause increased breakdown of red blood cells. (mayoclinic.org)

Symptoms

The most noticeable sign of jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. This typically starts on the face and may spread to the chest, abdomen, arms, and legs as bilirubin levels rise. In darker-skinned infants, jaundice might be more challenging to detect. (mayoclinic.org)

Management and Treatment

In most cases, neonatal jaundice is mild and resolves on its own. However, ensuring the baby receives adequate nutrition is crucial, as frequent feedings help eliminate bilirubin through stool and urine. If jaundice levels are high or rising, treatments such as phototherapy (exposing the baby to special light) may be used to help break down bilirubin. In rare cases, more intensive treatments like exchange transfusion are necessary. (mayoclinic.org)

When to Seek Medical Attention

It's essential to monitor jaundice in newborns. Contact a healthcare provider if:

• Jaundice appears within the first 24 hours after birth.

• The baby's skin becomes more yellow or spreads to the abdomen, arms, or legs.

• The baby is difficult to wake, is feeding poorly, or shows signs of illness.

• Jaundice persists beyond two weeks in formula-fed infants or four weeks in breastfed infants. (mayoclinic.org)

Regular follow-up visits are recommended to monitor bilirubin levels and ensure the baby's well-being.