Understanding Newborn Jaundice: Signs and Treatments

[priyankasharma]

 

As a new parent, you must have heard the word newborn jaundice tossed around at the doctor’s office, but what does it actually mean? In simple terms, newborn jaundice is when your baby’s skin and the whites of their eyes turn yellow. This occurs because of a substance called bilirubin. When bilirubin levels rise above normal, it can lead to jaundice. If you are living in Delhi and worried that your newborn might have jaundice, A general pediatrician in Delhi is the first person you should turn to. You can visit Dr. Promilla Butani’s Pediatrics Practice in South Delhi to consult a skilled paediatrician, Dr. Promilla Butani. She will be able to help you with your newborn’s health issues.

 

What Causes Newborn Jaundice?

 

Newborn jaundice usually happens because a baby’s liver isn’t fully developed yet and has trouble processing bilirubin. It is a substance that’s made when red blood cells break down. Normally, the liver gets rid of it, but in babies, their liver needs some time to grow and work properly. Hence, the jaundice condition occurs.

 

Signs of Newborn Jaundice

 

The major signs to look for in your newborn include:

 

• Yellow skin or eyes 
• Drowsiness or difficulty staying awake for feedings
• Dark yellow or orange urine or pale stools
• Poor feeding or not nursing effectively

 

Treatment Options for Jaundice

 

Thankfully, newborn jaundice can usually be treated without major issues. Here are some common treatments that the general pediatrician in Delhi, like Dr. Promilla Butani at Dr Promilla Butani’s Pediatrics Practice, often recommend:

 

• Phototherapy: In this treatment, a blue light is used to break down the bilirubin in the blood.
• Frequent Feeding: Frequent feeding promotes frequent bowel movements, indirectly helping remove the bilirubin from the body.
• Exchange Transfusion: In this process, the baby’s blood will be replaced by the donor’s blood to treat jaundice. However, this is only in severe jaundice cases.

 

When to visit your pediatrician?

 

You should immediately visit your kids' pediatrician in case:

 

• The jaundice seems to be getting worse after the first few days.
• Your baby is extremely sleepy and not feeding well.
• You notice the baby’s skin or eyes turning very yellow, especially after the first week.

 

Those looking for expert help can consult Dr. Promilla Butani, a pediatrician in South Delhi, who offers expert care in diagnosing and treating newborn jaundice, ensuring your baby gets the best possible care. Newborn jaundice can be confusing for new parents, but it's a common issue that usually gets better with the right care. 

Just remember, getting help early can really make a difference in how quickly your baby recovers.