Jaundice in Babies

Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin, commonly seen in newborns. The condition usually resolves itself in a matter of weeks but occasionally requires treatment to prevent further complications.

Cause

• Jaundice is caused by a buildup of the chemical bilirubin in the blood. The liver usually removes bilirubin, but a buildup can occur in newborns because their livers are still adjusting to the job.

Breastfeeding

• Nursing newborns can develop jaundice if they do not receive adequate breast milk.

Signs

• The yellowing of the skin often begins in the face before spreading to the chest, abdomen, arms and legs. The whites of the eyes can also turn yellow.

Severity

• Jaundice is usually mild enough to require no treatment but only a professional can make the determination, so all newborns should be seen by a doctor when they are between three and five days old.

Treatment

• Babies who require treatment will usually be put under special lights that lower bilirubin levels.