What Causes Jaundice in Babies? Symptoms and Treatment Options

What Is Jaundice in Babies?

Jaundice in babies is a common condition during the newborn period and is usually temporary. It is recognized by a yellowish discoloration of the baby's skin and the whites of the eyes. The main cause of jaundice is an increased level of a substance called bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a natural waste product formed when red blood cells break down. While the liver in adults processes and removes bilirubin efficiently, a newborn's liver is not yet fully mature, making bilirubin accumulation more likely.

Not every case of jaundice is dangerous. However, in some situations, bilirubin levels can rise excessively and pose health risks. For this reason, understanding the causes of jaundice and monitoring it properly is very important.

What Causes Jaundice in Babies?

There are several reasons why jaundice may develop in babies. The most common cause is physiological normal jaundice, but in some cases, underlying medical conditions may also be responsible.

1. Physiological Normal Jaundice

Physiological jaundice occurs in most newborn babies and usually appears within the first 2-4 days after birth. This happens because newborns are adapting from life in the womb, where they had a higher number of red blood cells. As excess red blood cells break down, bilirubin is produced. Since the baby's liver is not yet fully developed, it cannot eliminate bilirubin efficiently, leading to its accumulation in the blood.

Physiological jaundice typically resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks and does not require treatment. Regular feeding and routine medical follow-up are usually sufficient.

2. Breast Milk Jaundice

Some breastfed babies develop a type of jaundice that starts after the first week of life and lasts longer. Breast milk jaundice is thought to be related to certain substances in breast milk that slow down the elimination of bilirubin from the liver.

This type of jaundice is generally harmless. If the baby is gaining weight well and feeding effectively, breastfeeding should continue. Breast milk jaundice may last for several weeks but usually does not require treatment.

3. Jaundice Caused by Inadequate Feeding

If a baby does not receive enough milk, bowel movements may decrease, making it harder for bilirubin to be excreted through stool. As a result, bilirubin can be reabsorbed into the bloodstream, worsening jaundice.

This type of jaundice often occurs in the early days of breastfeeding when feeding is not frequent or effective enough. Ensuring regular and effective feeding is essential for newborns.

4. Blood Group Incompatibility

When there is blood group incompatibility between the mother and the baby, the baby's red blood cells may break down faster than normal. This increases bilirubin production and can lead to jaundice.

The most common types of incompatibility are ABO and Rh incompatibility. Jaundice caused by these conditions tends to appear earlier and may involve higher bilirubin levels, requiring close monitoring and treatment.

5. Premature Birth

Premature babies are more likely to develop jaundice because their liver functions are even less mature than those of full-term babies. As a result, bilirubin metabolism is less efficient.

Jaundice in premature infants may last longer and often requires closer observation and, in some cases, treatment in a hospital setting.

6. Infections

Newborn infections can affect liver function and lead to jaundice. Conditions such as sepsis, urinary tract infections, or congenital infections may cause elevated bilirubin levels.

Infection-related jaundice is usually accompanied by other symptoms and requires urgent medical evaluation.

7. Liver and Bile Duct Disorders

Although rare, certain congenital liver diseases or bile duct obstructions can cause jaundice in babies. This type of jaundice often lasts longer and may be associated with pale-colored stools and dark urine.

What Are the Symptoms of Jaundice in Babies?

Jaundice in babies usually first appears on the face. As bilirubin levels increase, the yellow discoloration may spread to the chest, abdomen, arms, and legs. Common symptoms include:

• Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes
• Excessive sleepiness or lethargy
• Poor feeding or reluctance to nurse
• Dark colored urine
• Pale colored stools in some cases

The severity and spread of these symptoms may provide clues about the level of jaundice, but a blood test is required for an accurate diagnosis.

When Is Jaundice in Babies Dangerous?

Most cases of jaundice are not dangerous, but some situations require immediate medical attention. Parents should seek medical care if:

• Jaundice appears within the first 24 hours after birth
• The yellowing spreads rapidly or intensifies
• The baby refuses to feed or is extremely sleepy
• Bilirubin levels rise quickly

If very high bilirubin levels are left untreated, they may rarely cause serious complications, including brain damage.

How Is Jaundice Diagnosed in Babies?

Jaundice is diagnosed through a physical examination and blood tests. The doctor evaluates the baby's skin color and measures bilirubin levels if necessary. In some cases, non invasive devices that measure bilirubin through the skin may also be used.

The baby's age, gestational age at birth, feeding pattern, and overall health are considered during diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Jaundice in Babies

Treatment depends on the cause of jaundice and the bilirubin level.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy is the most commonly used treatment for jaundice. The baby is placed under special lights that help convert bilirubin into a form that can be more easily excreted from the body. Phototherapy is safe and effective.

Frequent Feeding

In mild cases, frequent feeding helps promote bowel movements and supports the elimination of bilirubin through stool. Encouraging breastfeeding is particularly important.

Advanced Treatments

In rare and severe cases, more advanced treatments such as exchange transfusion may be necessary. These procedures are performed only in a hospital environment.

How Can Jaundice in Babies Be Prevented?

Although jaundice cannot always be prevented, its risk can be reduced. Frequent feeding after birth, regular medical checkups, and close monitoring of symptoms are key preventive measures.

Parental awareness plays an important role in early detection and timely intervention.

Jaundice in babies is usually a temporary and harmless condition. However, in some cases, it may indicate an underlying health problem. Therefore, jaundice symptoms should never be ignored. With early diagnosis and appropriate follow up, jaundice in babies can be managed safely and effectively.