How do you treat jaundice in newborns?

Jaundice in newborns is a common condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. While most cases are mild and resolve on their own, some require medical intervention to prevent complications. Understanding jaundice levels in newborns, its causes, and the available treatment options can help parents and caregivers manage the condition effectively.

In this article, we will explore the causes of jaundice in newborns, how it is diagnosed, and various treatment methods, including phototherapy, feeding strategies, and medical interventions.

Understanding Jaundice in Newborns

Jaundice occurs when a newborn’s liver is not yet fully developed to process and eliminate bilirubin effectively. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. In most cases, the condition is temporary and resolves within two to three weeks. However, high bilirubin levels in newborns can lead to complications like kernicterus, a rare but serious form of brain damage.

Types of Newborn Jaundice

There are several types of jaundice that can affect newborns:

1. Physiological Jaundice – The most common type, appearing 2-4 days after birth and resolving within two weeks.
2. Breastfeeding Jaundice – Occurs when a baby is not feeding well, leading to dehydration and slow bilirubin elimination.
3. Breast Milk Jaundice – Caused by substances in breast milk that temporarily reduce the liver’s ability to process bilirubin.
4. Hemolytic Jaundice – Due to excessive breakdown of red blood cells, often seen in blood group incompatibility cases.
5. Pathological Jaundice – A more severe form caused by liver disease, infections, or genetic disorders.

Diagnosing Jaundice in Newborns

Doctors assess jaundice levels in newborns through:

• Visual Examination: Yellowing of the skin, starting from the face and moving downward.
• Bilirubin Blood Test: Measures bilirubin levels in newborns to determine severity.
• Transcutaneous Bilirubin Meter: A non-invasive device that estimates bilirubin levels through the skin.
• Bilirubin Levels in Newborns Chart: Helps doctors compare bilirubin readings with age and risk factors to decide on treatment.

Jaundice Range in Newborns

Bilirubin levels vary based on a newborn’s age and health. A normal bilirubin level in newborn babies is below 5 mg/dL. However, levels above:

• 12-15 mg/dL in full-term infants may require monitoring.
• Above 20 mg/dL can require treatment.
• Above 25 mg/dL is considered dangerous and requires immediate medical intervention.

A doctor will determine if treatment is needed based on the bilirubin levels in newborns chart and other risk factors.

How to Treat Jaundice in Newborns

1. Frequent Feeding to Flush Out Bilirubin

One of the simplest ways to lower jaundice levels in newborns is through proper feeding.

• Breastfeeding: Newborns should breastfeed at least 8–12 times a day to help eliminate bilirubin through urine and stools.
• Formula Feeding: If breastfeeding is not sufficient, supplementing with formula can help prevent dehydration and speed up bilirubin removal.

Ensuring that babies get enough fluids helps prevent the buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream.

2. Phototherapy: The Standard Treatment for Jaundice

Phototherapy is the most effective treatment for high jaundice levels in newborns. In this process:

• Special blue light helps break down bilirubin into a form that can be eliminated through urine and stools.
• Babies are placed under the phototherapy lamp, wearing only a diaper and eye protection.
• In some cases, fiber-optic blankets (biliblankets) are used to provide light therapy while allowing parents to hold their baby.

Phototherapy is safe and widely used to reduce bilirubin quickly.

3. Exchange Transfusion for Severe Jaundice

If bilirubin levels in newborns are dangerously high and phototherapy is not effective, an exchange transfusion may be required.

• This procedure replaces the baby’s blood with fresh donor blood to rapidly lower bilirubin.
• It is only done in critical cases where kernicterus or severe jaundice complications are a risk.

4. Intravenous (IV) Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Therapy

For newborns with hemolytic jaundice (caused by blood type incompatibility), IVIG therapy may be used.

• This treatment helps reduce bilirubin levels by decreasing the destruction of red blood cells.
• It is often used to prevent the need for an exchange transfusion.

5. Sunlight Exposure (With Caution)

Some parents may wonder whether natural sunlight can treat jaundice. While mild sunlight exposure can help, it is not a substitute for phototherapy.

• Place the baby near a well-lit window for short periods.
• Avoid direct sunlight exposure, as newborn skin is highly sensitive to UV rays.

Consult your pediatrician before using sunlight as a jaundice treatment.

Home Care Tips for Jaundiced Newborns

If a baby has mild jaundice and is being monitored at home, here are some key tips:

• Ensure frequent feeding to aid bilirubin elimination.
• Monitor the baby’s skin daily to check if jaundice is worsening.
• Watch for dehydration (fewer wet diapers, dark urine, or excessive sleepiness).
• Follow up with the doctor to check bilirubin levels if needed.

When to Seek Medical Help

While mild jaundice is common, urgent medical care is needed if:

• The yellowing spreads to the legs or worsens after the first week.
• The baby is difficult to wake up or excessively sleepy.
• The baby has poor feeding or refuses to eat.
• There are signs of dehydration (dry mouth, reduced urination).
• The baby has high-pitched crying, seizures, or muscle stiffness (signs of severe jaundice complications).

These symptoms may indicate dangerously high jaundice levels in newborns that require immediate treatment.

How Long Does Jaundice Last?

• Physiological jaundice usually resolves within 2-3 weeks.
• Breastfeeding jaundice may last longer but is not usually harmful.
• Severe jaundice requiring treatment should be closely monitored to prevent long-term effects.

Conclusion

Jaundice in newborns is a common condition that usually resolves with proper feeding and monitoring. Understanding jaundice levels in newborns, the jaundice range in newborns, and the bilirubin levels in newborns chart can help parents and doctors decide the best course of action.

Most cases of newborn jaundice are mild, but severe cases require phototherapy, IV treatment, or even exchange transfusion. Regular follow-ups and proper care ensure that babies recover safely without complications.

If you notice worsening symptoms, always consult a pediatrician immediately for the best treatment approach.