Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and sclera (white part of the eyes). In infants, it is primarily caused by the immature liver having more work than it can handle. Bilirubin is a byproduct of normal red blood cell destruction. The liver is responsible for breaking down this bilirubin. When it cannot, bilirubin levels increase and it is stored under the skin causing a yellowing. It is not usually serious because it is not liver disease. Jaundice is usually seen a few days after birth in about 50% of all newborns. By 1-2 weeks of age, it is no longer present. However, because it can be a sign of liver problems or disease, it is important to have your doctor evaluate any jaundice.

Types of newborn Jaundice:

• Physiological Jaundice - Normal and does not usually require treatment.
• Breast milk Jaundice - Low incidence (1-2%). Usually begins about 4-7 days after birth and can last 3-10 weeks. Formula feeding for a few days may be necessary. Photo-therapy treatment may be necessary if the bilirubin levels are too high. This is when the baby is placed under special lamps to help the body break down the bilirubin and excrete (get rid of) it out of the body.
• Rh factor Jaundice - If the mother and the baby are different in their blood types, (positive + or negative -), a possible reaction may occur. Treatment is necessary. This is a rare form of jaundice in newborns.

What your doctor can do:

• Perform a physical exam and a blood test measuring the level of bilirubin in the blood.
• Although treatment is not usually required, if the bilirubin level is too high, your doctor may order photo-therapy.

What you can do:

• In breastfed babies, 5 minutes of sun exposure per day may help with the absorption of the excess bilirubin.
• Keep the baby well hydrated
• Feed often to promote bowel movements (one way of getting rid of bilirubin).

Contact your doctor if your baby's skin is jaundiced, or the jaundice seems to be getting worse.

Contact Lake Area Pediatrics at
(936) 582-5620