Treatment of Jaundice in Babies

According to the Mayo Clinic, jaundice is represented by a yellow tone in the baby's skin. The condition is common in newborns, particularly those who were born prematurely. In most cases, jaundice is not dangerous.

Condition

• Jaundice is caused when the liver is not fully developed or functioning. This underdevelopment prevents the liver from processing excess bilirubin in the bloodstream, causing a yellow coloring of the skin and eyes. The symptoms of jaundice usually become first apparent in a baby's face.

Risks

• If jaundice is severe and left untreated, brain damage can result as excess bilirubin is toxic to brain cells. However, complications from jaundice are rare.

Symptoms

• Jaundice causes yellow coloring of the eyes and skin. It typically occurs during the first few days of life. Bilirubin levels in babies will reach their maximum three to five days after birth. The infant should be evaluated for jaundice during this time.

Treatment

• Most babies with jaundice will benefit from light therapy. The special light changes the composition of the bilirubin to assist the body in breaking it down. For more severe cases, immunoglobulin or blood transfusions may be necessary.

Home Remedies

• Increasing feedings can be another treatment option for jaundice because they can increase bowel movements and therefore the excretion of bilirubin in the stool. This should only be done under the supervision of a physician.