Neonatal jaundice is a common condition where a newborn’s skin and eyes turn yellow. This happens because of high levels of a substance called bilirubin in the baby’s blood. Though it can sound worrying, understanding what causes jaundice and how it’s treated can help you manage it better.
What is Neonatal Jaundice?
Neonatal jaundice occurs when there’s too much bilirubin in a newborn’s blood, causing their skin and eyes to look yellow. Bilirubin is a substance produced when red blood cells break down. Newborns often have immature livers that can't process bilirubin quickly, leading to this condition.
Why Does Neonatal Jaundice Happen?
Several factors can cause jaundice in newborns:
- Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common type and happens because a newborn’s liver is still developing. It usually appears within the first few days of life and tends to resolve on its own within one to two weeks.
- Breastfeeding Jaundice: If a baby isn’t feeding well, it might lead to dehydration or not enough food, which can increase bilirubin levels.
- Breast Milk Jaundice: This occurs later, often after the first week, and is linked to substances in breast milk that can affect bilirubin processing. It typically resolves within a few weeks.
- Hemolytic Jaundice: This type is less common and occurs when there’s a blood type mismatch between the mother and baby, causing the baby’s red blood cells to break down too quickly.
- Other Medical Issues: Sometimes, jaundice can be due to infections, liver problems, or genetic conditions.
Signs of Neonatal Jaundice
The main sign of jaundice is a yellowish tint to the baby’s skin and the whites of their eyes. It usually starts on the face and can spread to the chest and stomach. Other signs might include:
- Dark Yellow Urine: The baby’s urine may be darker than usual.
- Pale Stools: The baby’s stools may appear lighter in color.
How is Jaundice Diagnosed and Treated?
Jaundice is diagnosed through a physical exam and sometimes a blood test to check bilirubin levels. Treatment varies depending on how severe the jaundice is:
- Phototherapy: This common treatment involves placing the baby under special lights that help break down the bilirubin in their skin.
- Feeding More Often: For breastfeeding jaundice, feeding the baby more often can help improve their condition.
- Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases, a procedure may be needed to replace the baby’s blood with fresh blood to lower bilirubin levels.
When to See a Doctor?
Mild jaundice usually goes away on its own. However, you should contact a healthcare provider if:
- The jaundice appears within the first 24 hours after birth.
- The jaundice worsens or doesn’t improve within a week.
- Your baby seems very tired, isn’t feeding well, or shows other concerning signs.
Neonatal jaundice is a common issue where a baby’s skin and eyes turn yellow due to high bilirubin levels. It often resolves on its own, but understanding the causes and treatments can help you manage it effectively. Treatments like phototherapy and increasing feedings can help, and it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and seek medical help if needed.
