Overview of Neonatal Jaundice

Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns where the skin and eyes appear yellow due to a buildup of bilirubin. It is typically caused by the liver's inability to process bilirubin efficiently during the early days of life. Though most cases resolve on their own, severe jaundice can lead to complications if left untreated.

Types of Neonatal Jaundice

• Physiological Jaundice: Common in newborns, typically appearing 2–3 days after birth and resolving within a week.
• Breastfeeding Jaundice: Occurs when the baby doesn't get enough milk, leading to dehydration and higher bilirubin levels.
• Breast Milk Jaundice: Caused by substances in breast milk that can affect bilirubin processing, usually seen after the first week.
• Pathological Jaundice: Results from underlying health issues like blood incompatibility, liver disease, or infection, requiring medical intervention.

Symptoms of Neonatal Jaundice

Yellowing of the skin and eyes (icterus)

Dark urine

Pale stools

Poor feeding

Lethargy

High bilirubin levels in blood tests

Causes of Neonatal Jaundice

Immature liver: The liver of newborns is not fully developed to efficiently process bilirubin.

Blood type incompatibility: Differences between the baby’s and mother’s blood types can lead to red blood cell destruction.

Prematurity: Premature infants often have a higher risk due to their underdeveloped liver function.

Infections: Infections like sepsis or urinary tract infections can increase the risk.

Complications in Neonatal Jaundice

Kernicterus: A rare but serious form of brain damage caused by very high bilirubin levels.

Developmental delays: If bilirubin levels are not managed, there may be long-term developmental issues.

Risk Factors of Neonatal Jaundice

Premature birth: Premature babies have a higher chance of developing jaundice.

Blood type incompatibility: If the mother and baby have different blood types.

Poor feeding or dehydration: Insufficient milk intake can lead to higher bilirubin levels.

Preventions of Neonatal Jaundice

Proper breastfeeding: Ensure that the baby feeds well to avoid dehydration.

Monitor bilirubin levels: Regular checkups and bilirubin tests during the first few days of life.

Phototherapy: Early treatment with light therapy to help break down excess bilirubin.