Newborn jaundice is common during the first days of life. It causes a baby’s skin and the whites of the eyes to appear yellow because of increased bilirubin in the blood. In many healthy newborns, jaundice is temporary and improves as the baby’s liver becomes better at processing bilirubin.

However, very high bilirubin levels can be dangerous, so parents should know when medical evaluation is needed.

What Causes Jaundice in Newborns?

Newborn babies naturally break down red blood cells, producing bilirubin. Their immature liver may not remove bilirubin from the body quickly enough, causing it to build up.

Jaundice may also be associated with feeding difficulties, blood-group incompatibility, infection or other medical conditions.

When Is Newborn Jaundice Usually Normal?

Jaundice commonly appears after the first 24 hours of life and often becomes more noticeable over the next few days before gradually improving.

A pediatrician may monitor the baby’s bilirubin level and feeding, weight and overall condition to determine whether treatment is necessary.

When Can Jaundice Be Dangerous?

Parents should seek medical attention promptly if:

• Jaundice appears during the first 24 hours after birth
• The yellow colour becomes increasingly intense or spreads to the legs
• The baby is difficult to wake or unusually sleepy
• The baby is not feeding well
• The baby has fewer wet diapers
• The baby develops a fever or appears unwell
• Jaundice continues for longer than expected

Very high bilirubin levels can affect the brain, making timely medical assessment important.

How Is Newborn Jaundice Treated?

Treatment depends on the baby’s age, bilirubin level, gestational age and overall health. Mild jaundice may only require careful monitoring and adequate feeding.

When bilirubin levels become too high, phototherapy may be recommended. In rare, severe cases, additional medical treatment such as an exchange transfusion may be required.

How Can Parents Help?

Feed your baby regularly according to medical advice and monitor feeding and wet diapers. Do not try to treat significant jaundice with sunlight at home, as this is not a reliable or safe substitute for medical phototherapy.

Conclusion

Newborn jaundice is often temporary, but it should not be ignored. Jaundice appearing within the first 24 hours, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness or worsening yellowing requires prompt medical evaluation.

If you are concerned about your newborn’s skin colour or behaviour, contact a pediatrician for appropriate assessment and bilirubin testing.