Neonatal jaundice is the yellowish discoloration of a newborn’s skin and eyes. It is very common among newborns and can have multiple causes, but it is rarely a serious condition.
It affects 6 out of every 10 newborns because their liver is still learning how to efficiently break down old red blood cells.
Under normal circumstances, the liver processes old red blood cells by converting them into a yellow substance called bilirubin, which is then excreted from the body. However, in newborns, the liver is slower at eliminating bilirubin, leading to its accumulation in the bloodstream and resulting in yellowing of the skin and eyes.
The reassuring fact is that only 1 in 20 newborns requires treatment for jaundice. (1)
How Is Neonatal Jaundice Treated?
In most cases, jaundice resolves on its own without medical intervention within 2 to 3 weeks after birth. For breastfed babies, it may persist for a month or slightly longer in some cases. (3)
However, in certain situations, a newborn may need medical assistance to lower bilirubin levels, especially if they are too high or rising rapidly. (4) Here are some treatment options:
1. Frequent Feeding
Feed your baby every 2 to 3 hours (about 12 times per day) through breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination of both. Ensuring that your baby receives enough milk helps promote bowel movements, which aid in eliminating excess bilirubin from the body through stool and urine. (4)
2. Phototherapy
Phototherapy is the most common treatment for neonatal jaundice. It involves exposing the baby’s skin to a special blue light, which converts bilirubin into a form that can be easily excreted through stool and urine. This method is highly effective in treating jaundice in almost all cases. (5)
How Is Phototherapy Performed?
The newborn is placed naked, wearing only a diaper and a special eye shield for protection, under a blue light in an incubator or warm bed. Treatment typically lasts 2 to 3 days until bilirubin levels reach a safe range. (6)
Hospital or Home Treatment?
Phototherapy is usually performed in the hospital, but in certain cases, it can be done at home if the newborn is healthy and does not have complications. Some hospitals offer a special light therapy blanket for home use. However, continuous monitoring is essential, and parents should inform the doctor immediately if they notice any concerning symptoms. (5)
Side Effects of Phototherapy
Most newborns tolerate phototherapy well, and it does not cause serious side effects. However, some babies may experience mild rash and temporary diarrhea for a few days. Additionally, some may lose a small amount of fluid, requiring extra feedings during treatment. (6)
3. Other Treatments for Severe Cases
- Exchange Transfusion: In rare and severe cases of jaundice that do not respond to phototherapy, a procedure called exchange transfusion may be necessary. This involves replacing the baby’s blood with donor blood, significantly reducing bilirubin levels. Blood tests are performed within two hours after the procedure to assess its effectiveness. If bilirubin levels remain high, the procedure may be repeated.
At Al-Ahli Hospital, we prioritize your baby’s health and provide the best medical care for jaundice, ensuring round-the-clock monitoring and support. Do not hesitate to contact us for assistance!
Can Jaundice Be Treated with Sunlight?
No, sunlight is not a safe treatment for neonatal jaundice. While sun exposure was used in the past, it is no longer recommended due to the risk of severe sunburn. Instead, blue light phototherapy in hospitals remains the safest and most effective treatment. (5)
References
- NHS - Overview - Newborn Jaundice
- Mayo Clinic - Infant Jaundice
- HealthyChildren - Jaundice in Newborns: Parent FAQs
- MedlinePlus - Newborn Jaundice
- UpToDate - Jaundice in Newborn Infants (Beyond the Basics)
- Raising Children Network - Jaundice in Newborns
