Causes and symptoms of jaundice in new born

Jaundice in newborns, also known as neonatal jaundice, is a common condition that occurs when there is an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced during the breakdown of old red blood cells. In newborns, the liver is still maturing and may not be able to remove bilirubin from the blood efficiently, leading to an increase in bilirubin levels.

Causes of Jaundice in Newborns:

  1. Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common type of jaundice in newborns. It occurs due to the immaturity of the liver and the breakdown of red blood cells.
  2. Breast Milk Jaundice: This type of jaundice occurs when the mother's breast milk contains a substance that slows down the breakdown of bilirubin in the baby's liver.
  3. Infection: Bacterial or viral infections, such as sepsis or urinary tract infections, can cause jaundice in newborns.
  4. Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn: This is a condition that occurs when the mother has a blood type that is incompatible with the baby's blood type, leading to the destruction of the baby's red blood cells.
  5. Congenital Disorders: Certain congenital disorders, such as galactosemia or Crigler-Najjar syndrome, can cause jaundice in newborns.
  6. Prematurity: Premature babies are at a higher risk of developing jaundice due to their immature liver function.

Symptoms of Jaundice in Newborns:

  1. Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes: The most common symptom of jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes, which can range from mild to severe.
  2. Fatigue: Newborns with jaundice may be more tired and lethargic than usual.
  3. Loss of Appetite: Jaundiced newborns may have a decreased appetite and may not want to feed as much.
  4. Vomiting: Some newborns with jaundice may vomit after feeding.
  5. Dark Urine: Jaundiced newborns may have dark yellow or amber-colored urine.
  6. Pale or Clay-Colored Stool: Newborns with jaundice may have pale or clay-colored stools.

Complications of Jaundice in Newborns:

  1. Brain Damage: High levels of bilirubin in the blood can cause brain damage, which can lead to long-term developmental delays and intellectual disability.
  2. Kernicterus: This is a rare but serious complication of jaundice that can cause brain damage and hearing loss.
  3. Seizures: Jaundiced newborns may experience seizures, which can be a sign of high bilirubin levels.

Treatment of Jaundice in Newborns:

  1. Phototherapy: This is the most common treatment for jaundice in newborns. Phototherapy uses special lights to break down bilirubin in the blood.
  2. Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases of jaundice, an exchange transfusion may be necessary to remove the bilirubin from the blood.
  3. Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help reduce bilirubin levels.
  4. Breast Milk Expression and Storage: In cases of breast milk jaundice, the mother may need to express and store her breast milk to help reduce bilirubin levels.

It's essential to monitor bilirubin levels in newborns and seek medical attention if you notice any signs of jaundice. Early detection and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure a healthy outcome for the baby.