Welcoming a newborn into the world is a joyous occasion for every parent. However, many newborns experience a common condition called neonatal jaundice. While it may seem concerning, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments can help parents manage it effectively.

What is Neonatal Jaundice?

Neonatal jaundice is a condition that causes a newborn’s skin and eyes to appear yellow due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. The liver helps remove bilirubin from the body, but in newborns, the liver is still developing and may take some time to process bilirubin efficiently.

Causes of Neonatal Jaundice

Jaundice in newborns is quite common and can be caused by several factors:

1. Physiological Jaundice – This is the most common type and occurs because the baby’s liver is still maturing.
2. Breastfeeding Jaundice – Sometimes, jaundice can occur in breastfed babies due to insufficient milk intake in the first few days of life.
3. Breast Milk Jaundice – Some substances in breast milk may slow down the processing of bilirubin, leading to mild jaundice that lasts a little longer.
4. Blood Type Incompatibility – If the mother’s and baby’s blood types are different, the baby’s red blood cells may break down faster, increasing bilirubin levels.
5. Premature Birth – Premature babies have underdeveloped livers, making it harder for them to remove bilirubin from their bodies.

Symptoms of Neonatal Jaundice

Parents should look for the following signs:

• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (starting from the face and moving downward)
• Poor feeding or difficulty in breastfeeding
• Lethargy or excessive sleepiness
• Dark yellow urine (instead of colorless) and pale stools (instead of yellow or green)

When Should Parents Be Concerned?

While mild jaundice is normal and usually harmless, some cases require medical attention. Parents should consult the Best Child Specialist if:

• The jaundice spreads to the legs and arms.
• The baby has difficulty feeding or appears very weak.
• The baby is extremely drowsy and hard to wake up.
• The jaundice persists beyond two weeks.
• There are high-pitched cries or unusual movements.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors at the Best Paediatric Hospital in West Delhi will assess jaundice using physical examination and bilirubin level tests. Depending on the severity, treatment may include:

1. Phototherapy – The baby is placed under special blue lights that help break down bilirubin.
2. Frequent Feeding – Ensuring the baby gets enough breast milk or formula helps flush out bilirubin through urine and stools.
3. Exchange Transfusion – In very severe cases, a blood transfusion may be required to replace the baby’s blood with fresh blood, quickly reducing bilirubin levels.

Preventing Neonatal Jaundice

While some types of jaundice cannot be entirely prevented, parents can take steps to reduce the risk:

• Ensure the baby is well-fed and hydrated in the first few days after birth.
• Frequent breastfeeding (8–12 times a day) helps in flushing out excess bilirubin.
• Attend regular follow-up checkups at a reliable Mother and Child Care in West Delhi to monitor the baby’s health.
• Be aware of risk factors, such as blood type incompatibility or premature birth, and discuss them with the doctor in advance.

Conclusion

Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns, and in most cases, it resolves without complications. However, early detection and proper care are crucial. Parents should remain observant, ensure proper feeding, and seek medical guidance when necessary. Choosing the Best Paediatric Hospital in West Delhi ensures your baby receives the highest standard of care from experienced doctors. If you have concerns about your baby’s health, consulting the Best Child Specialist can provide peace of mind and the right treatment.

For expert Mother and Child Care in West Delhi, visit a trusted hospital where professionals are dedicated to your newborn’s well-being.