JAUNDICE IN NEWBORNS (Hyperbilirubinemia)

Jaundice is a yellow discoloration to the skin and the white’s of the eyes of a newborn.

  • It normally develops between 72 and 96 hours after birthIt is usually present in the first 5 days of life.
  • Sign that there is increased bilirubin in the baby’s blood also known as Hyperbilirubinemia
  • Mild jaundice in babies that goes away after 1 to 2 weeks is normal and will not cause problems.
  • In rare cases, untreated jaundice may cause irreversible brain damage calle kernicterus which can bring about serious problems.
  • Babies that develop jaundice within 24 hours or birth must be brought to a doctor immediately

Symptoms:

Yellowish Skin/Eyes. Starts on face and chest 1 to 5 days after birth

High Bilirubin may cause an infant to be/have (Call your physician right away if your baby has any of the following):

  • Sluggish
  • Cranky/Jittery
  • Poor Suck
  • High Pitched Cry
  • Arch back

DIAGNOSIS

Physician may do/request:

  • History & Physical Exam
    • Ask questions about you and your baby’s health
    • You and your baby’s blood type
  • Blood Test for Bilirubin
  • Other Tests (if needed)

 

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

Treatment is needed if bilirubin is above normal levels.

  • Phototherapy
    • Consists of placing your baby under a fluorecent light may be done
    • Exposure to light will aid in getting rid of the bilirubin from the body
  • Blood transfusion may be needed
    • If other complications are present such as Rh incompatibility

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]