Jaundice

Jaundice is the yellow color seen in the skin of newborns. It occurs when bilirubin builds up in the baby’s blood. Jaundice is common in the first few days after birth because it takes the baby’s liver a few days to get better at removing the bilirubin. There are several things that can put a baby at risk for having jaundice. A few risk factors include: prematurity, dehydration, the baby having a different blood type than mom, family history of siblings who needed treatment for jaundice, and breastfeeding. While breastfeeding does put a baby at increased risk for jaundice, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), still strongly encourages and supports breastfeeding.

When jaundice occurs, the skin and eyes of a baby can appear yellow. Jaundice usually first noticeable on the face, and can move down the body as the amount of bilirubin increases in the body.

Most newborns have mild jaundice that is harmless and goes away on it’s own, but there are occasions when the bilirubin level can get very high and possibly cause brain damage. It is important for newborns to be checked carefully for jaundice and treated if necessary to prevent such complications. 

It is not normal for children after the newborn period to develop jaundice. If you notice yellowing of the eyes or face in your child after the newborn period, they need to be seen by their doctor.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child having jaundice, call our office at (402) 489-0800 to schedule an appointment.

Adapted from AAP’s website, Healthychildren.org.