Within the first 48 hours after birth, many newborns develop jaundice. Without proper treatment, the child may become permanently disabled.
Neonatal jaundice
is a very common condition that appears in almost all newborns to some extent.
Usually, within the first week after birth, many babies develop a slight
yellowish tint on the skin and the whites of the eyes. This is called jaundice.
Seeing this, many parents become frightened, but not all types of jaundice are
dangerous. In most cases, it is a normal physiological process that resolves on
its own within a few days without treatment. However, in some cases, it can
become severe and pose serious risks to the baby. Therefore, it is very
important to understand the causes, types, and treatments of neonatal jaundice.
Causes of Neonatal Jaundice
Neonatal
jaundice occurs mainly due to a pigment called bilirubin. When red
blood cells break down, bilirubin is produced. In adults, the liver processes
bilirubin and removes it from the body. But since the liver of a newborn is not
fully developed, it cannot process bilirubin quickly. As a result, bilirubin
levels rise in the blood, causing yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes.
A newborn's
body contains a higher number of red blood cells at birth. When these excess
cells start to break down, bilirubin production increases. On the other hand,
the newborn’s immature liver cannot process the excess bilirubin efficiently.
This causes physiological or normal jaundice, which usually appears 2–3 days
after birth and resolves within 7–10 days.
However, not
all jaundice is normal and some cases require medical attention, such as:
• Blood group
incompatibility: If the mother’s and baby’s blood groups are incompatible (e.g.,
Rh or ABO incompatibility), the baby’s red blood cells break down rapidly,
increasing bilirubin levels.
• Premature
babies: Preterm infants have even more immature livers, making them more
prone to jaundice.
• Infection: Infections
during or after birth may decrease liver function, leading to jaundice.
• Breast
milk jaundice: Sometimes due to breastfeeding irregularities or hormonal effects
in breast milk, jaundice may occur.
Symptoms of Neonatal Jaundice
The first
symptom is a yellowish tint on the skin and the whites of the eyes. Initially,
it appears on the face and eyes, then spreads downward across the body. In
severe jaundice, symptoms may include excessive sleepiness, poor feeding, lethargy,
reduced crying, and even seizures. If these symptoms appear, medical attention
should be sought immediately.
Diagnosis of Neonatal Jaundice
When
examining the baby, if the doctor notices yellowing of the skin, they may
gently press the baby’s forehead, face, or chest to observe the color changes.
Yellowing in the palms and soles also indicates jaundice.
Doctors
usually diagnose jaundice based on skin color, but to confirm, a bilirubin test
is done. This test measures the bilirubin level in the blood. Modern hospitals
also use a “transcutaneous bilirubin meter,” which can measure bilirubin
through the skin—safe and painless for the baby.
Treatment of Neonatal Jaundice
If bilirubin
spreads excessively, it can cross into the brain and damage brain tissues. This
may cause permanent neurological damage. Therefore, it is important to identify
the type of jaundice and treat it properly.
The World
Health Organization does not recommend placing the baby under
direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure can burn the baby’s skin. However, some
studies suggest that mild sunlight through a window can help reduce jaundice.
Additional measures include:
1. Breastfeeding:
Frequent
breastfeeding is the most important treatment. Jaundice can dehydrate the baby,
so regular feeding helps eliminate bilirubin through urine and stool.
2. Sunlight exposure:
Exposing the
baby to mild morning sunlight (for 20–30 minutes) while covering the eyes,
face, and private parts may help.
3. Phototherapy:
At healthcare
centers, babies are treated with blue light under phototherapy. This breaks
down bilirubin, allowing the baby to recover.
4. Exchange transfusion:
In very
severe cases, the baby may need a blood exchange transfusion to rapidly reduce
bilirubin levels.
What You Should Never Do
In many countries,
home remedies or traditional treatments are used for jaundice, which often
cause more harm than good. These should be strictly avoided. Only follow the
doctor’s instructions. With proper care, neonatal jaundice is completely
treatable—so do not delay in seeking medical advice.
Prevention and Care
• Monitor the
baby’s skin and eyes regularly after birth.
• Ensure the baby is well-hydrated through adequate breastfeeding.
• Observe the baby’s urine and stool frequency.
• Mild sunlight before 8 AM or after 5 PM may help reduce bilirubin.
• Avoid using medicines or home treatments without professional guidance.
Conclusion
In
most cases, neonatal jaundice is normal and temporary. However, if neglected,
it can become severe and cause brain damage, known as Kernicterus.
Therefore, parents must stay alert from the moment the baby is born, seek
medical help at the first sign of symptoms, and follow the doctor’s advice.
With timely care and treatment, neonatal jaundice is fully curable, ensuring
the baby’s healthy development.
