Understanding Newborn Jaundice

What is Newborn Jaundice?

Newborn jaundice is a common condition that causes a yellow coloring of a baby's skin and eyes. It occurs when there's a high level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during normal breakdown of red blood cells.

Key Facts

• Affects up to 60% of full-term newborns
• More common in premature babies
• Usually appears 2-4 days after birth
• Typically clears within 1-2 weeks

Signs and Symptoms

• Yellowing of the skin that:
  • Starts on the face
  • Spreads to the chest, stomach, and limbs
• Yellow tinge to the whites of the eyes
• Darker urine than normal
• Pale stools

Types of Jaundice

1. Physiological Jaundice

   • Most common type
   • Normal response in newborns
   • Usually harmless

2. Breast Milk Jaundice

   • Associated with breastfeeding
   • May last 3-12 weeks

3. Pathological Jaundice

   • Requires medical attention
   • May indicate underlying condition

Treatment Options

Phototherapy

• Special blue lights treat high bilirubin levels
• Baby lies under lights wearing only a diaper
• Treatment usually lasts 1-2 days

Feeding Support

• Frequent feeding helps remove bilirubin
• 8-12 feeds per 24 hours recommended
• Monitor wet diapers and weight gain

When to Seek Medical Help

• Jaundice in first 24 hours of life
• Rapidly deepening yellow color
• Poor feeding or lethargy
• High-pitched crying
• Arching of the back

Prevention

• Regular feeding
• Early and frequent breastfeeding
• Monitoring baby's output
• Regular medical check-ups

Long-term Outlook

Most cases resolve without complications. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment ensure the best outcomes for your baby.