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Jaundice is caused by the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is the yellowish pigment that is made during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. It is the result of overproduction of or failure to metabolize and excrete bilirubin. The term jaundice is derived from the French word “Jaune,” meaning yellow. Similarly, Infant or Neonatal Jaundice is caused as the newborn’s immature liver is not capable of releasing the bilirubin from the body quickly.

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Signs of Infant Jaundice

Most hospitals have a policy of examining babies for jaundice before discharge. In most cases Jaundice in newborns is normal, but in some cases, it may be an indication of some underlying medical condition.

• Yellowish skin and white part of eyes turning yellow

• Baby sleeps more than often and looks tired

• Feeds poorly and has poor weight gain

• Cries out too loud

• Baby develops a fever

• Any symptoms which bring concern

Causes Of Infant Jaundice and Complications

Excess bilirubin is the main cause of Jaundice in newborns. High-risk factors are premature birth, bruising during delivery, blood group incompatibility with mother, breastfeeding jaundice, breastmilk jaundice. Newborn Jaundice can also be a sign of some underlying conditions like internal bleeding, viral or bacterial infections, liver malfunction, enzyme deficiency, etc.

Complications due to newborn jaundice, if untreated, brain damage, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, difficulty in walking, improper development of tooth enamel, etc.

Diagnosing Jaundice in Babies

Newborn Jaundice is generally tested on the first day and monitored till 3-5 days after birth when the risk is high. Visual examination is done first where the baby’s skin and eyes are tested under good lighting and the doctor asks few questions regarding the baby’s stool and urine color. In case of doubt, the doctor further recommends a blood test to check the bilirubin levels, for which generally the results are out in an hour or two.

How to prevent Infant Jaundice
The best way to prevent jaundice in newborns is by adequate feeding. Ensure your baby is getting enough nutrition through breastmilk or formula milk. Talk to your doctor if your baby is taking inadequate milk. Carefully monitor baby’s skin, eyes, and urine color for the first important 5 days. And visit a doctor if you notice any symptoms as explained earlier.  

Treatment for Newborn Jaundice

Mild jaundice usually resolves on its own with the baby’s growth when the liver begins to help bilirubin from the body with frequent feeding. Further phototherapy is recommended until the bilirubin level comes down and in severe cases, exchange transfusion is advised, where the baby receives a small amount of blood from the donor.

Video: Infantile Jaundice Symptoms and Causes

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