Neonatal Jaundice: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What is Neonatal Jaundice?

Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns. It causes a yellow color in the skin and eyes. This happens when there is too much bilirubin in the baby’s blood. Bilirubin is a yellow substance made when red blood cells break down. Most babies get mild jaundice in the first week of life. Usually, it goes away on its own. However, sometimes it needs treatment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over half of all newborns develop some jaundice.

Common Causes of Neonatal Jaundice

There are several newborn jaundice causes. Some are harmless, while others need medical care. Understanding these causes helps parents know what to expect.

Physiological jaundice: This is the most common type. It happens because a newborn’s liver is still maturing.

Breastfeeding jaundice: Sometimes, not getting enough breast milk can raise bilirubin levels.

Blood type mismatch: If the mother and baby have different blood types, the baby’s red blood cells may break down faster.

Premature birth: Babies born early have less developed livers, so they may get jaundice more easily.

Infections or other illnesses: Rarely, infections or genetic problems can cause jaundice.

Recognizing Symptoms in Newborns

It is important to spot signs of jaundice in babies early. Early detection helps prevent problems. Look for these symptoms:

Yellow skin, starting on the face and moving to the chest or arms

Yellow color in the whites of the eyes

Poor feeding or trouble sucking

Unusual sleepiness or low energy

Dark yellow urine (should be colorless in newborns)

Pale or light-colored stools

However, mild jaundice is common and often harmless. Still, always watch for these signs and talk to your doctor if you are worried.

How Neonatal Jaundice is Diagnosed

Doctors use several ways to check for neonatal jaundice. First, they look at the baby’s skin and eyes. Next, they may use a special device to measure bilirubin through the skin. If needed, a blood test checks the exact bilirubin level. Sometimes, more tests are done to find the cause. For example, doctors may check the baby’s blood type or look for infections. Early diagnosis helps guide the right treatment.

Treatment Options for Neonatal Jaundice

Many parents ask, “How is neonatal jaundice treated?” Treatment depends on how high the bilirubin level is and the baby’s age. Most mild cases need no treatment and clear up in a week or two. However, some babies need extra care. Common treatments include:

Phototherapy: The baby is placed under special blue lights. These lights help break down bilirubin in the skin.

Feeding support: More frequent feedings help the baby pass bilirubin in stools and urine.

Exchange transfusion: In rare cases, the baby’s blood is replaced to quickly lower bilirubin. This is only for severe cases.

Most babies respond well to these treatments. Still, regular checks are important to make sure bilirubin levels are safe.

Tips for Prevention and Home Care

Although not all cases can be prevented, there are ways to lower the risk of jaundice in newborns. Here are some helpful tips:

Start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, if possible.

Feed your baby often, at least 8-12 times a day.

Watch for signs of poor feeding or dehydration.

Keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor.

Ask your doctor about your baby’s risk if you had a previous child with jaundice.

At home, always keep an eye on your baby’s skin and eyes. If you notice any yellowing, let your doctor know right away.

When to Seek Medical Help

Sometimes, neonatal jaundice can become serious. You should call your doctor or visit a clinic if:

Your baby’s skin or eyes look more yellow

Your baby is very sleepy or hard to wake

Your baby is not feeding well or has trouble sucking

Your baby has dark urine or pale stools

You are worried or unsure about your baby’s health

Early treatment can prevent problems. Therefore, do not wait if you see these signs.

If you notice signs of jaundice in your newborn, consult Swetha Skin & Children’s Clinic for personalized advice.