Newborn jaundice is a common condition. It causes a yellowing of the baby’s skin and eyes. This happens due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment. It forms when red blood cells break down. The liver processes it. Then, it is excreted from the body. In newborns, the liver is not fully developed. This can lead to a buildup of bilirubin.
Understanding Newborn Jaundice
Causes of Jaundice in Newborns
Jaundice in newborns can be caused by several factors.
Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common type. It appears in most newborns. It is due to the immature liver. It usually appears on the second or third day of life. It peaks around the fourth or fifth day. It then gradually decreases over the next week or two.
Breastfeeding Jaundice: This occurs in breastfed babies. It can happen due to insufficient intake of breast milk. This leads to dehydration and fewer bowel movements. This type of jaundice appears in the first week of life.
Breast Milk Jaundice: This is different from breastfeeding jaundice. It is due to substances in the mother’s milk. These substances can increase the reabsorption of bilirubin from the intestines. It typically appears after the first week of life. It can last for several weeks.
Blood Group Incompatibility: This happens if the mother’s blood type is different from the baby’s. It can cause rapid breakdown of the baby’s red blood cells. This type of jaundice can appear in the first 24 hours of life.
Premature Birth: Premature babies are more likely to develop jaundice. Their livers are even less mature.
Symptoms of Newborn Jaundice
The primary symptom of jaundice is yellowing of the skin and eyes. This usually starts on the face. It then spreads to the chest, stomach, and legs. Other symptoms can include:
Poor feeding or difficulty feeding
Lethargy or excessive sleepiness
Dark urine
Pale-colored stools
Diagnosis of Newborn Jaundice
Doctors use several methods to diagnose jaundice.
Physical Examination:
The doctor will look for yellowing of the skin and eyes. They may press lightly on the baby’s skin to check for yellow discoloration.
Blood Tests:
A blood sample can measure the levels of bilirubin.
Transcutaneous Bilirubinometer:
This device measures bilirubin levels through the skin. It is non-invasive and quick.
Treatment of Newborn Jaundice
Most cases of jaundice are mild. They resolve on their own. However, some cases require treatment.
Phototherapy:
This is the most common treatment. The baby is placed under special lights. These lights help break down bilirubin in the skin.
Exchange Transfusion:
In severe cases, blood transfusions may be needed. This replaces the baby’s blood with fresh blood. It quickly reduces bilirubin levels.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg):
This can be used if jaundice is due to blood group incompatibility. IVIg can reduce the need for exchange transfusion.
SEE ALSO: What Happens When Bilirubin is High in Newborns
Home Care for Newborn Jaundice
There are steps parents can take at home.
Frequent Feeding:
Ensure the baby feeds frequently. This helps excrete bilirubin through urine and stools.
Sunlight Exposure:
Brief exposure to sunlight can help reduce bilirubin levels. However, this should be done cautiously to avoid sunburn.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is important to monitor the baby’s condition. Seek medical attention if:
Jaundice appears in the first 24 hours of life.
The baby is not feeding well.
The baby is very sleepy and difficult to wake.
The yellowing of the skin and eyes is worsening.
The baby has dark urine or pale stools.
Duration of Jaundice in Newborns
The duration of jaundice can vary.
Physiological Jaundice:
This typically resolves within two weeks in full-term babies. In premature babies, it can last three weeks or longer.
Breastfeeding Jaundice:
This usually improves with increased feeding and hydration. It typically resolves within one to two weeks.
Breast Milk Jaundice:
This can last several weeks. In some cases, it can persist for more than a month. It is generally not harmful. Babies continue to thrive and grow well.
Pathological Jaundice:
If jaundice is due to an underlying condition, it may last longer. Treatment of the underlying condition is necessary.
Long-term Effects of Jaundice
Most cases of newborn jaundice are harmless. However, very high levels of bilirubin can be dangerous. If untreated, it can lead to kernicterus. This is a type of brain damage. Symptoms of kernicterus include:
High-pitched crying
Poor sucking or feeding
Arching of the body
Seizures
Kernicterus is rare. Early treatment of jaundice can prevent it.
Conclusion
Newborn jaundice is common. It is usually mild and temporary. Monitoring the baby’s condition is important. Most cases resolve within a few weeks. Treatment is available for more severe cases. Always seek medical advice if you are concerned. Early intervention can prevent complications.
FAQs
How Do I Get Rid of Yellow Eyes in My Newborn?
To address yellow eyes in a newborn, which is commonly due to jaundice, consider the following steps:
Frequent Feeding: Ensure your baby feeds frequently. This helps in reducing bilirubin levels as it promotes the excretion of bilirubin through urine and stools.
Phototherapy: This is a common treatment. The baby is placed under special blue lights that help break down bilirubin in the skin. Phototherapy is effective in lowering bilirubin levels quickly.
Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases of jaundice, a blood transfusion might be needed. This procedure replaces the baby’s blood with fresh blood to quickly reduce bilirubin levels.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): This treatment can be used if jaundice is due to blood group incompatibility, helping to reduce bilirubin levels.
Sunlight Exposure: Brief exposure to sunlight can help break down bilirubin, but this should be done carefully to avoid sunburn.
Always consult your pediatrician before starting any treatment.
How Long Does It Take for Yellow Jaundice Eyes to Go Away?
The duration for jaundice to resolve can vary:
Physiological Jaundice: Typically, this type of jaundice resolves within two weeks in full-term babies. In premature infants, it may last up to three weeks or longer.
Breastfeeding Jaundice: This usually improves within one to two weeks with increased feeding.
Breast Milk Jaundice: This type can last several weeks, and sometimes up to a month, but it is usually harmless.
Pathological Jaundice: If jaundice is due to an underlying condition, it may last longer and will require treatment of the underlying issue.
What Is the Fastest Way to Cure Jaundice in Newborns?
The fastest way to reduce jaundice in newborns is through:
Phototherapy: This is the most effective and commonly used treatment. The baby is placed under special lights that help break down bilirubin in the skin, usually resulting in a rapid decrease in bilirubin levels.
Exchange Transfusion: For severe jaundice that does not respond to phototherapy, an exchange transfusion may be necessary. This procedure can quickly reduce bilirubin levels by replacing the baby’s blood with fresh blood.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): For jaundice caused by blood group incompatibility, IVIg can help reduce bilirubin levels quickly.
Always follow medical advice for the most appropriate and effective treatment for your baby’s jaundice.
