Jaundice is a common condition that affects many babies within the first few days of life. It is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the infant's body. Bilirubin is a naturally-occurring substance that is created by the breakdown old red blood cells.

Significance

Babies get jaundice because their red blood cells have a shorter life than adults, and are therefore broken down more frequently. This causes a high level of bilirubin to pass through the liver, which may not be mature enough to handle the breakdown of all the bilirubin being produced by the body.

Time Frame

Medical professionals and parents should be on the lookout for jaundice in the first three or four days of a baby's life. Infants who experienced bruising during childbirth will be at greater risk of developing jaundice, because their bodies will produce additional red blood cells to heal the damaged tissue.

Identification

Jaundice can be identified by a yellowing of the skin, the eyes and the inside of the mouth. Checking the inside of the mouth and the eyes can be especially helpful in children with darker skin, as a yellow tinge to their skin will be harder to identify.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the jaundice. Many babies will only need more frequent breast or bottle feedings until the jaundice has disappeared. Babies with more severe jaundice may require phototherapy for one or two days.

Severity

In the majority of cases, jaundice is a relatively minor condition that causes no permanent damage to children. Extremely high levels of bilirubin in the body can be life threatening, however, so it is important to have it treated quickly.

Source:

Family Doctor: Jaundice and Your Baby