What are the signs of jaundice?

Jaundice is a common condition in newborns that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes. While it is usually harmless and resolves on its own, it’s essential for parents to recognize the signs and understand when to seek medical advice. At Tourmaline Birth Center, San Diego’s luxury premier natural birth center, we provide comprehensive support to help parents navigate their baby’s health. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs of jaundice, its causes, and available treatment options.

Understanding Jaundice

Jaundice occurs when there is a buildup of bilirubin in the baby’s blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. A newborn’s liver, which helps process bilirubin, may not be fully developed, leading to an excess of bilirubin in the body.

Common Signs of Jaundice

1. Yellowing of the Skin: The most noticeable sign of jaundice is yellowing of the skin. This often starts on the face and then spreads to the chest, stomach, arms, and legs. To check for jaundice, gently press your baby’s forehead or nose. If the skin appears yellow where you pressed, your baby might have jaundice.
2. Yellowing of the Eyes: The whites of your baby’s eyes may also appear yellow, a condition known as scleral icterus. This is another common sign of jaundice.
3. Dark Urine: Although newborns usually have light-colored urine, jaundice can cause it to be darker. If you notice dark yellow or brownish urine, it could indicate elevated bilirubin levels.
4. Pale Stools: Newborn stools are typically mustard yellow. If your baby’s stools are pale or light-colored, it might be a sign of jaundice.
5. Poor Feeding and Lethargy: Babies with jaundice may be less interested in feeding and may appear more tired or lethargic than usual. While these signs alone do not confirm jaundice, combined with yellowing of the skin or eyes, they warrant attention.

Causes of Jaundice

Jaundice can occur for various reasons, including:

1. Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common type of jaundice and occurs in most newborns as their liver matures. It typically appears 2-4 days after birth and resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks.
2. Breastfeeding Jaundice: Breastfeeding jaundice can occur in the first week of life if a baby is not feeding well or is not getting enough breast milk. Ensuring frequent and effective breastfeeding can help prevent and treat this type of jaundice.
3. Breast Milk Jaundice: This type of jaundice develops after the first week of life and is thought to be linked to substances in the mother’s milk that increase bilirubin levels. It is generally harmless and resolves without stopping breastfeeding.
4. Blood Type Incompatibility: If the mother and baby have different blood types, the mother’s body may produce antibodies that destroy the baby’s red blood cells, leading to increased bilirubin levels. This can cause jaundice within the first 24 hours of life.
5. Hemolysis: Conditions that cause the rapid breakdown of red blood cells, such as hereditary spherocytosis or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, can lead to jaundice.
6. Infections and Other Health Conditions: Infections, liver problems, or other medical conditions can also cause jaundice in newborns.

Diagnosing Jaundice

If you suspect your baby has jaundice, it’s important to contact your pediatrician. The doctor may perform several tests to diagnose and assess the severity of jaundice:

1. Physical Examination: The pediatrician will examine your baby’s skin and eyes for signs of jaundice.
2. Bilirubin Level Tests: A blood test or a non-invasive skin test can measure your baby’s bilirubin levels. This helps determine the severity of jaundice and the need for treatment.
3. Additional Tests: If the bilirubin levels are high or the jaundice appears within the first 24 hours, further tests may be needed to identify the underlying cause.

Treatment Options for Jaundice

1. Phototherapy: Phototherapy is a common treatment for jaundice. Your baby will be placed under special blue lights that help break down bilirubin in the skin. This treatment is safe and effective.
2. Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases, an exchange transfusion may be necessary. This involves gradually replacing your baby’s blood with donor blood to quickly reduce bilirubin levels.
3. Adequate Feeding: Ensuring your baby is feeding well can help lower bilirubin levels. Frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding can promote regular bowel movements, which help eliminate bilirubin.
4. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): For jaundice caused by blood type incompatibility, IVIg can reduce the need for an exchange transfusion by lowering antibody levels in the baby’s blood.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While jaundice is often harmless, it’s important to seek medical advice if:

• Your baby shows signs of jaundice within the first 24 hours of life.
• The jaundice is spreading or getting worse.
• Your baby has a fever, poor feeding, or appears very lethargic.
• The jaundice lasts more than three weeks.

Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, but understanding the signs and knowing when to seek medical advice can ensure your baby receives the appropriate care. At Tourmaline Birth Center, we are dedicated to supporting you and your baby’s health. If you have any concerns or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts. Your baby’s well-being is our top priority, and we are here to provide the care and support you need.

Recognizing the signs of jaundice and taking prompt action can help ensure a healthy start for your newborn. With the right knowledge and support, you can navigate this common condition with confidence.