Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

How is jaundice in newborn babies treated?

Most babies do not need treatment for jaundice beyond monitoring and making sure they are feeding well. If necessary, phototherapy may be recommended. In this treatment the baby is exposed to a special blue light that helps to break down the excess bilirubin. In rare cases, a blood transfusion may be needed.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is jaundice in newborn babies?

Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes in newborn babies. It is caused by raised levels in the blood and tissues of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment found in bile.

What are the symptoms of jaundice in newborn babies?

The main symptom of jaundice is a yellow coloring of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Other symptoms can include unexpected levels of drowsiness, problems with feeding, light-colored stools and dark urine.

What causes jaundice in newborn babies?

Most cases of jaundice in newborn babies are caused by excess bilirubin in the blood, as the baby's liver is temporarily unable to break down all the bilirubin. The excess bilirubin normally clears within a week or two. In some cases, however, …

How common is jaundice in newborn babies?

Around three of every five (60%) full-term babies and four of every five (80%) premature babies show some signs of jaundice.

How is jaundice in newborn babies diagnosed?

Jaundice in newborn babies is diagnosed by a physical examination of the baby. In some cases, a blood test (performed via a heel prick test) may be recommended to measure the level of bilirubin in the blood.

Will jaundice in newborn babies clear up on its own?

In most cases, the jaundice will clear on its own. However, when a serious underlying medical condition is causing the baby's jaundice, treatment will usually be needed.

What can be done at home to treat jaundice in newborn babies?

Ensuring a baby is feeding well can help to prevent or treat jaundice, as bilirubin is excreted through stools and urine. If you are experiencing difficulty with your baby's feeding, seek advice from a doctor, midwife or …

Is jaundice in newborn babies serious?

In most cases, the jaundice will not harm the baby and will clear up on its own, or with simple treatment such as phototherapy. However, if the jaundice becomes severe and the level of bilirubin in the blood become very high, serious brain damage can …

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Diaper rash

Diaper rash is a skin rash around the diaper area that is common in babies between four and fifteen months of age. Most babies will get nappy rash at some point while they are in nappies, but they can usually be cared for at home.…
Diseases & conditions

Hives

Hives is a skin rash characterised by itchy, red swellings. It can appear on the face, trunk, arms, legs, and lips. Hives are commonly a sign of an allergic reaction, which can be triggered by a range of factors. Depending on the duration and severity, different treatment options are available.…
Diseases & conditions

Tinea

Tinea, also known as ringworm, is a common skin infection with a characteristic ring-like appearance. It is caused by several types of fungus and can appear on different parts of the body including the scalp, chest, feet, groin, face, hands and nails. Tinea is very contagious but easily treated.…
Diseases & conditions

Psoriasis

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy skin cells by mistake, causing patches of skin to become dry, scaly and itchy. It’s a long-term condition that tends to flare up and then fade in cycles.…
Diseases & conditions

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that causes outbreaks of pimples and cysts, mainly on the face, back, arms and chest. It occurs when hair follicles become blocked with oil and/or debris, such as dead skin cells. Anyone can get acne, but it's more common during the teenage years. Treatment options are available to help prevent and treat acne.…
Diseases & conditions

Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition which causes a red rash to appear on the face. It occurs due to enlargement of blood vessels under the skin. There are numerous treatment options to help alleviate symptoms.…

About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 383 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Diaper rash

×

Content goes in here.