Hi Readers,
Jaundice is a common condition that affects newborns. It is caused by a build-up of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. Jaundice can make a baby’s skin and whites of their eyes look yellow. It is usually not a serious condition and will go away on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, jaundice can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition.
What Causes Jaundice in Babies?
There are several factors that can contribute to jaundice in babies, including:
Physiological jaundice is the most common type of jaundice in newborns. It is caused by the baby’s liver being immature and unable to process bilirubin quickly enough. Physiological jaundice usually develops within the first 2-3 days of life and peaks at around 5-7 days. It typically goes away on its own within 2-3 weeks.
Breast milk jaundice is a type of jaundice that can develop in babies who are breastfed. It is caused by a substance in breast milk that can interfere with the liver’s ability to process bilirubin. Breast milk jaundice usually develops within the first week of life and can last for several weeks. It typically goes away on its own.
Pathological jaundice is a type of jaundice that is caused by an underlying medical condition. This can include conditions such as liver disease, gallbladder disease, or a blood disorder. Pathological jaundice usually develops within the first 24 hours of life and can be more severe than physiological jaundice. It may require treatment.
What are the Symptoms of Jaundice in Babies?
The most common symptom of jaundice in babies is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Other symptoms can include:
- Dark urine
- Light-colored stools
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability
- Lethargy
How is Jaundice in Babies Diagnosed?
Jaundice is diagnosed based on a physical examination and a blood test. The blood test will measure the level of bilirubin in the baby’s blood.
How is Jaundice in Babies Treated?
Most cases of jaundice in babies do not require treatment. However, if the jaundice is severe or is caused by an underlying medical condition, treatment may be necessary. Treatment options may include:
- Phototherapy: This involves exposing the baby to special lights that help to break down bilirubin.
- Exchange transfusion: This is a procedure in which the baby’s blood is replaced with donor blood.
When Should I Call the Doctor?
You should call the doctor if your baby has any of the following symptoms:
- Jaundice that develops within the first 24 hours of life
- Jaundice that is severe or is getting worse
- Jaundice that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as dark urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite, irritability, or lethargy
Conclusion
Jaundice is a common condition that affects newborns. It is usually not a serious condition and will go away on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, jaundice can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition. If you are concerned about your baby’s jaundice, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Check out these other articles for more information on jaundice in babies:
Table: Causes of Jaundice in Babies
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Physiological jaundice | The most common type of jaundice in newborns. It is caused by the baby’s liver being immature and unable to process bilirubin quickly enough. |
| Breast milk jaundice | A type of jaundice that can develop in babies who are breastfed. It is caused by a substance in breast milk that can interfere with the liver’s ability to process bilirubin. |
| Pathological jaundice | A type of jaundice that is caused by an underlying medical condition. This can include conditions such as liver disease, gallbladder disease, or a blood disorder. |
FAQ about Jaundice in Babies
What is jaundice?
Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes. It occurs when there is too much bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down.
What causes jaundice in babies?
Jaundice in babies is usually caused by the liver’s inability to process bilirubin properly. This can be due to factors such as:
- Immaturity of the liver (common in newborns)
- Infection
- Liver disease
- Gallbladder problems
- Blocked bile ducts
What are the symptoms of jaundice in babies?
The most noticeable symptom is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Other symptoms can include:
- Dark yellow urine
- Pale or clay-colored stools
- Fussiness
- Poor feeding
How is jaundice diagnosed?
Jaundice is diagnosed based on a physical exam and blood test. The blood test will measure the level of bilirubin in the blood.
How is jaundice treated?
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. In most cases, jaundice will improve on its own within 2-3 weeks. However, if the bilirubin levels are high or the baby is showing other symptoms, treatment may be necessary. This may include phototherapy (exposure to special lights) or exchange transfusion.
Is jaundice harmful to babies?
Mild jaundice is not usually harmful, but high levels of bilirubin can cause serious problems, such as damage to the brain and liver.
How can jaundice be prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent jaundice, but some things may help, such as:
- Breastfeeding exclusively for the first few weeks of life
- Ensuring the baby is getting enough to eat
- Avoiding certain medications that can increase bilirubin levels
When should I call the doctor?
Call your doctor if your baby:
- Is less than 2 weeks old and has jaundice
- Has jaundice that is getting worse
- Is not eating well
- Is lethargic or irritable
What is the outlook for babies with jaundice?
Most babies with jaundice will recover completely. However, babies with high levels of bilirubin or other complications may need ongoing medical care.
