Jaundice in Newborns (Symptoms,Causes and Treatment)

Jaundice in newborns, also known as neonatal jaundice, is a common condition that occurs when a newborn’s liver is not fully developed and is unable to efficiently remove bilirubin from the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced by the breakdown of red blood cells and can cause a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Neonatal jaundice usually appears within the first few days after birth and typically resolves on its own within two to three weeks. However, in some cases, high levels of bilirubin can be harmful and require medical intervention.

This article covers the following topics :

What is jaundice in newborns?

Jaundice in newborns is a common condition that occurs when a newborn’s liver is not fully developed and is unable to efficiently remove bilirubin from the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and excretes it through the bile ducts into the intestines, where it is eliminated from the body through the stool.

In newborns, the liver may not be fully developed and may not be able to process bilirubin as efficiently as in older children or adults. This can cause bilirubin to build up in the blood, leading to a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, which is known as jaundice.

Neonatal jaundice usually appears within the first few days after birth and is typically harmless, resolving on its own within two to three weeks as the baby’s liver becomes better able to process bilirubin. However, in some cases, high levels of bilirubin can be harmful and require medical intervention.

Factors that can increase a baby’s risk of developing jaundice include prematurity, bruising during birth, blood type incompatibility between the mother and baby, and certain medical conditions, such as an infection or an underactive thyroid gland.

The diagnosis of jaundice in newborns is usually based on a physical examination of the baby, including the observation of the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Blood tests may also be done to measure the levels of bilirubin in the blood.

Treatment for neonatal jaundice may involve simply monitoring the baby’s condition and waiting for the bilirubin levels to decrease on their own. However, in more severe cases, treatment may involve phototherapy, which uses special lights to break down bilirubin in the skin, or exchange transfusion, which involves replacing the baby’s blood with donor blood to lower the bilirubin levels.

It is important for parents to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions for monitoring and treating jaundice in their newborn to ensure the best possible outcome for their baby.

How many different types of neonatal jaundice are there?

There are three main types of neonatal jaundice:

1-Physiological jaundice: This is the most common type of neonatal jaundice and occurs in more than half of all newborns. It usually appears 2-3 days after birth and peaks between days 4 and 5. It is caused by the natural breakdown of red blood cells, which releases bilirubin into the bloodstream.

2-Breastfeeding jaundice: This type of jaundice occurs in some breastfed babies when they are not getting enough breast milk. It usually appears in the first week of life and can last up to 3-4 weeks. The insufficient intake of breast milk can cause dehydration, which leads to an increase in bilirubin levels in the blood.

3-Breast milk jaundice: This type of jaundice occurs in a small percentage of breastfed babies and typically appears after the first week of life. It is caused by a substance in the mother’s milk that can interfere with the baby’s liver’s ability to process bilirubin.

In addition to these three main types, there are also some less common types of neonatal jaundice, such as hemolytic jaundice, which is caused by a breakdown of red blood cells, and liver disease-related jaundice, which is caused by a malfunctioning liver. These types of jaundice require more intensive medical treatment and monitoring.

How common is jaundice in newborns?

Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, with approximately 60% of full-term babies and 80% of premature babies experiencing some degree of jaundice. Physiological jaundice is the most common type, affecting more than half of all newborns. Breastfeeding jaundice and breast milk jaundice are less common, affecting about 1-2% and 2-4% of breastfed infants, respectively. Hemolytic jaundice and liver disease-related jaundice are rarer and affect a small percentage of newborns. While most cases of neonatal jaundice are mild and resolve on their own without treatment, it is important to monitor the baby’s bilirubin levels and seek medical attention if necessary to prevent complications.

What are the signs of jaundice in newborns?

The most common sign of jaundice in newborns is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. This can start from the head and spread down to the rest of the body. However, jaundice can also affect the mucous membranes of the mouth and the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Other signs and symptoms of jaundice in newborns may include:

1-Poor feeding or difficulty feeding

2-Lethargy or decreased activity

3-High-pitched crying

4-Arching of the back or neck

5-Rapid breathing or respiratory distress

6-Dark urine or pale, chalky-colored stools

7-Fever or other signs of infection (in severe cases)

It is important for parents to keep an eye out for these signs and to notify their healthcare provider if they notice any of them, as they may indicate a more severe case of jaundice that requires medical attention.

What causes jaundice in newborns?

Jaundice in newborns is caused by an excess buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and excretes it through the bile ducts into the intestines, where it is eliminated from the body through the stool.

In newborns, the liver may not be fully developed and may not be able to process bilirubin as efficiently as in older children or adults. Additionally, newborns have a higher rate of red blood cell breakdown than older individuals, which can lead to a higher production of bilirubin.

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of jaundice in newborns. These may include:

1-Physiological factors: Many healthy newborns experience a mild form of jaundice in the first few days of life due to factors such as the breakdown of excess red blood cells or a delay in the development of liver function.

2-Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can sometimes lead to jaundice in newborns if the baby is not getting enough milk or if there is a problem with latching.

3-Blood type incompatibility: If the mother and baby have different blood types, the baby may be at risk for developing jaundice.

4-Infections: Certain infections in the mother or the baby, such as sepsis or hepatitis, can cause jaundice in newborns.

5-Genetic factors: Some genetic conditions, such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency or alpha-thalassemia, can lead to an increased risk of jaundice in newborns.

It is important to note that while most cases of jaundice in newborns are mild and resolve on their own without treatment, severe or prolonged jaundice can lead to complications and requires medical attention.

How is jaundice in newborns diagnosed?

Jaundice in newborns is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and measurement of bilirubin levels in the blood.

During a physical examination, the healthcare provider will assess the baby’s skin and eyes for signs of yellowing. They may also press on the baby’s skin to see if it appears yellow beneath the pressure, which is called blanching.

If jaundice is suspected, the healthcare provider may order a blood test to measure the level of bilirubin in the baby’s blood. A small amount of blood is usually taken from the baby’s heel using a lancet and sent to a laboratory for testing. The bilirubin level can help determine the severity of the jaundice and whether treatment is necessary.

In some cases, the healthcare provider may also perform additional tests to identify the underlying cause of the jaundice. For example, they may test for blood type incompatibility or look for signs of infection.

It is important for parents to bring their baby for regular check-ups and to notify their healthcare provider if they notice any signs of jaundice. Early diagnosis and treatment of jaundice can prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome for the baby.

How is jaundice in newborns treated?

Treatment for jaundice in newborns depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In most cases, jaundice in newborns does not require treatment and resolves on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, treatment may be necessary to prevent complications.

Treatment options for jaundice in newborns may include:

1-Phototherapy: This involves placing the baby under special lights that help to break down bilirubin in the skin. The baby is typically undressed and placed under the lights for several hours a day until the bilirubin levels decrease. Phototherapy can be done in the hospital or at home with specialized equipment.

2-Exchange transfusion: This is a more invasive treatment that involves replacing some of the baby’s blood with donor blood. This helps to lower the levels of bilirubin in the blood and can be effective in severe cases of jaundice.

3-Feeding: Ensuring that the baby is getting enough breast milk or formula can help to reduce the bilirubin levels by promoting bowel movements, which help to eliminate bilirubin from the body.

4-Treatment of underlying conditions: If jaundice is caused by an underlying condition such as an infection, treatment may involve antibiotics or other medications.

It is important for parents to follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and monitoring of jaundice in their newborn to ensure the best possible outcome for their baby. In severe cases of jaundice, untreated bilirubin levels can lead to serious complications such as brain damage, so it is important to seek medical attention if jaundice is suspected.

How to prevent jaundice in newborn babies?

Jaundice in newborn babies is a common and typically harmless condition that often resolves on its own without any treatment. However, there are several steps that parents can take to help prevent the development of severe jaundice and minimize the risk of complications.

1-Early and frequent feedings: Feeding your baby frequently, at least 8 to 12 times per day, helps to promote bowel movements and eliminate bilirubin from the body. For breastfed babies, it is important to ensure that they are latching properly and getting enough milk.

2-Ensure good hydration: Adequate hydration helps the body to process bilirubin. Ensuring that your baby is getting enough fluids, whether through breast milk or formula, can help prevent dehydration and minimize the risk of developing jaundice.

3-Monitor your baby: Keep an eye out for any signs of jaundice, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, and notify your healthcare provider if you notice any changes.

4-Ensure prompt medical care: Seek prompt medical attention if your baby develops jaundice or if you have concerns about their health.

5-Blood type compatibility: If the mother and baby have different blood types, the baby may be at risk for developing jaundice. In such cases, the healthcare provider may recommend additional monitoring or treatment.

6-Avoid medications: Some medications can increase the risk of jaundice in newborns. It is important to discuss any medications with your healthcare provider before taking them while pregnant or breastfeeding.

It is important to note that in most cases, jaundice in newborns is a common and harmless condition that resolves on its own without any treatment. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s health, it is important to seek prompt medical attention.

How long does jaundice in newborns last?

The duration of jaundice in newborns can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. In most cases, jaundice in newborns is mild and resolves on its own within two to three weeks without any treatment. However, some babies may experience more severe jaundice that requires medical intervention.

Breastfeeding jaundice and breast milk jaundice, which are caused by insufficient intake of breast milk or a substance in the mother’s milk that interferes with the baby’s liver function, respectively, may last for several weeks or longer.

In rare cases, jaundice in newborns may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires more intensive treatment and monitoring. In these cases, the duration of jaundice will depend on the severity and nature of the underlying condition.

It is important to monitor your baby’s bilirubin levels and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and monitoring to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have concerns about your baby’s health or the duration of their jaundice, it is important to seek prompt medical attention.

When should a doctor be consulted for neonatal jaundice?

Parents should contact their healthcare provider if they notice any signs of jaundice in their newborn, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, or if they have any concerns about their baby’s health.

In general, healthcare providers will monitor bilirubin levels in newborns during routine check-ups, and they will recommend further evaluation and treatment if the bilirubin levels are elevated or if the jaundice appears to be worsening.

1-Parents should seek prompt medical attention if they notice any of the following signs or symptoms:

2-Yellowing that starts in the chest or abdomen and spreads to the arms or legs

3-Yellowing that persists beyond three weeks

4-Poor feeding or difficulty feeding

5-Lethargy or decreased activity

6-High-pitched crying

7-Arching of the back or neck

8-Rapid breathing or respiratory distress

9-Dark urine or pale, chalky-colored stools

10-Fever or other signs of infection

If parents have any concerns about their baby’s health, they should contact their healthcare provider right away. Prompt evaluation and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome for the baby.