Causes and treatment of jaundice in new born babies

Jaundice in newborn babies, also known as neonatal jaundice, is a common condition that occurs when the baby's liver is unable to remove a yellow pigment called bilirubin from the blood. Bilirubin is produced when old red blood cells are broken down and is normally removed from the blood by the liver. In newborns, the liver is still maturing and may not be able to remove bilirubin efficiently, leading to a buildup of the pigment in the blood and skin.

Causes of Jaundice in Newborn Babies:

  1. Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common type of jaundice in newborns. It occurs because the liver is still maturing and is not able to remove bilirubin efficiently.
  2. Breast Milk Jaundice: Some babies may develop jaundice due to the presence of a substance in breast milk that can increase bilirubin levels.
  3. Infection: Infections such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, or sepsis 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. Galactosemia: This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to process galactose, a sugar found in breast milk.
  6. Hepatitis: Infection with hepatitis viruses, such as hepatitis B or hepatitis C, can cause jaundice in newborns.
  7. Congenital Disorders: Certain congenital disorders, such as biliary atresia or Alagille syndrome, can cause jaundice in newborns.

Symptoms of Jaundice in Newborn Babies:

  1. Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes: The most common symptom of jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes.
  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.
  4. Vomiting: Some newborns with jaundice may vomit after feeding.

Treatment of Jaundice in Newborn Babies:

  1. Phototherapy: This is the most common treatment for jaundice in newborns. Phototherapy uses special lights to break down bilirubin in the skin, allowing it to be removed from the body.
  2. Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases of jaundice, an exchange transfusion may be necessary. This involves replacing the baby's blood with blood that is free of bilirubin.
  3. Medications: In some cases, medications such as phenobarbital or rifampin may be prescribed to help increase the breakdown of bilirubin.
  4. Breast Milk Expression and Storage: If the jaundice is caused by breast milk, the mother may need to express and store her breast milk until the jaundice resolves.
  5. Supplemental Feedings: In some cases, supplemental feedings of formula or glucose may be necessary to help the baby gain weight and improve the liver's ability to remove bilirubin.

Prevention of Jaundice in Newborn Babies:

  1. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can help to reduce the risk of jaundice in newborns.
  2. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of bilirubin levels can help to identify jaundice early, allowing for prompt treatment.
  3. Proper Nutrition: Ensuring that the baby is receiving proper nutrition, including adequate amounts of iron and vitamin K, can help to reduce the risk of jaundice.

It is important to note that jaundice in newborns is usually a mild condition and can be treated with phototherapy. However, in some cases, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, and prompt medical attention is necessary to ensure the baby's health and well-being.