Welcome to our comprehensive guide on what jaundice looks like in babies. Jaundice is a common condition that affects newborns and infants, and it occurs when there’s an excess of bilirubin in the baby’s blood. In this article, we’ll discuss the possible causes and symptoms of jaundice in babies, how it can be diagnosed and treated, and when to seek medical attention for your little one.
What is Jaundice?
Jaundice is a common medical condition that’s characterized by the yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. It happens when there’s a buildup of bilirubin in the baby’s blood, which is a yellowish pigment that’s produced when red blood cells break down. In most cases, jaundice in babies is a harmless condition that typically goes away without any treatment within two to three weeks.
Types of Jaundice in Babies
Physiological Jaundice
Physiological jaundice is the most common type of jaundice in babies, affecting up to 60% of all newborns within the first week of life. It occurs when the baby’s liver is still developing and is unable to process bilirubin efficiently. In most cases, physiological jaundice resolves on its own after a few weeks once the baby’s liver starts to function better.
Breastfeeding Jaundice
Breastfeeding jaundice is caused by insufficient intake of breastmilk, leading to dehydration and the accumulation of bilirubin in the baby’s blood. This type of jaundice usually occurs during the first week of life and can be managed by increasing the frequency of breastfeeding and monitoring the baby’s urine and stool output.
Breast Milk Jaundice
Breast milk jaundice is a rare type of jaundice that happens when a substance in the breast milk inhibits the baby’s liver from processing bilirubin effectively. This type of jaundice usually appears after the first week of life and can last for several weeks or months. In most cases, breast milk jaundice doesn’t require any treatment and disappears on its own.
Hemolytic Jaundice
Hemolytic jaundice is a more severe type of jaundice that can occur if there’s an underlying medical condition that increases the breakdown of red blood cells, such as Rh incompatibility or ABO incompatibility. Hemolytic jaundice can lead to a high level of bilirubin in the baby’s blood, which can cause brain damage in rare instances. Treatment may include phototherapy, exchange transfusion, or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
What Does Jaundice Look Like in Babies?
Jaundice in babies often starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body, including the chest, belly, arms, and legs. The whites of the eyes may also turn yellow. Here are some signs and symptoms of jaundice in babies:
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
- Pale stools
- Dark urine
- Irritability
- Difficulty waking up for feedings
- Lethargy or tiredness
Diagnosing Jaundice in Babies
Jaundice in babies can be diagnosed based on a physical examination and blood tests that measure the level of bilirubin in the baby’s blood. A bilirubin level of 13 mg/dl or higher in a baby under 38 weeks of age or 15 mg/dl or higher in a baby over 38 weeks of age, indicates significant jaundice and requires treatment.
Treating Jaundice in Babies
Most babies with jaundice don’t require any treatment, and the condition often resolves on its own within a few weeks. However, in more severe cases, treatment may be necessary to prevent complications. The most common treatment for jaundice is phototherapy, where the baby is exposed to a special blue light that helps break down bilirubin in the skin. In rare cases, an exchange transfusion may be needed to replace the baby’s blood with donor blood.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Your Baby
If you notice any signs or symptoms of jaundice in your baby or are concerned about your baby’s health, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. If your baby has a bilirubin level of 25 mg/dl or higher, they are at risk of kernicterus, a rare but severe complication that can cause permanent brain damage.
Preventing Jaundice in Babies
Although it’s not always possible to prevent jaundice in babies, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk. These include:
- Feeding your baby early and often, especially if you’re breastfeeding
- Ensuring your baby gets enough milk and fluids
- Getting your baby checked for jaundice within the first few days of life
Conclusion
Jaundice in babies is a common condition that affects many newborns and infants. It occurs when there’s an excess of bilirubin in the baby’s blood, leading to yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Although most cases of jaundice in babies are benign and resolves on their own, it’s important to seek medical attention if you notice any signs or symptoms of the condition in your little one. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of jaundice in babies, you can provide the best care for your baby and ensure they remain healthy and happy.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take for jaundice to go away in babies?
A: Jaundice in babies typically resolves on its own within two to three weeks. However, in some cases, it may take longer, up to three months.
Q: Is breastfeeding linked to jaundice in babies?
A: Breastfeeding can sometimes be a contributing factor to jaundice in babies, particularly if there’s an insufficient intake of breast milk or if the baby is not breastfeeding frequently enough.
Q: Can jaundice in babies cause brain damage?
A: In rare cases, severe jaundice in babies can lead to a condition called kernicterus, which is a type of brain damage caused by high levels of bilirubin in the blood. However, with prompt treatment, the risk of kernicterus can be minimized.
Q: What can parents do to treat jaundice in their babies?
A: The most common treatment for jaundice in babies is phototherapy, where the baby is exposed to a special blue light that helps break down bilirubin in the skin. In more severe cases, an exchange transfusion may be necessary.
Q: How can jaundice in babies be prevented?
A: While it’s not always possible to prevent jaundice in babies, you can take some steps to reduce the risk, such as feeding your baby early and often, ensuring they get enough milk and fluids, and getting them checked for jaundice within the first few days of life.
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infant-jaundice/symptoms-causes/syc-20373865
- https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/breastfeeding/Pages/How-to-Manage-Breastfeeding-Jaundice.aspx
- https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/newborn/conditioninfo/treatments/phototherapy
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470225/