Jaundice is characterized by a yellowish discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes.

Newborns are born with a surplus of red blood cells and after birth the excess cells are broken down in the spleen.

One of the breakdown products of red blood cells is Bilirubin.

Bilirubin normally travels in the blood from the spleen to the liver where it is processed with no problems.

When the immature liver of a newborn cannot yet adequately break down the red blood cells, Bilirubin increases in the bloodstream causing the yellow discoloration.

It is a common condition that usually appears in the first few days after birth and can last two to three weeks. It usually goes away as the baby matures.

Mild Cases of Jaundice:

If your baby only has only a mild case of jaundice, also referred to as physiological jaundice, treatment is usually not necessary. You might be advised to put your baby in in-direct sunlight for a few minutes each day as this can help break down the Bilirubin.
Keeping your baby well-hydrated with breast milk or formula is important. Bilirubin is carried out of the body by the intestines through their stools, so feed frequently to encourage bowel-movements throughout the day.

Moderate Cases of Jaundice:

If your baby has more than a mild case of jaundice, also referred to as pathological jaundice, or is premature, she may be treated by phototherapy. She will be placed under a special ultraviolet light in a protected isolette for several hours at a time wearing only a diaper and protective eye patches.

Phototherapy helps transform the Bilirubin into a less harmful chemical that is easily broken down by the body.
Phototherapy is safe, but is only used when needed; usually for two to three days after which the baby’s liver takes over.

Severe Cases of Jaundice:
In the most severe cases of jaundice, an exchange transfusion is required. This is where new blood is transfused and the old blood is removed. This is very rare.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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