Jaundice is a condition, caused by bilirubin (old red blood cell waste), that turns the skin and whites of the eyes a yellowish tint and is a common occurrence in newborns. Jaundice can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
Causes
According to the New York Times, jaundice occurs when "too many red blood cells retiring, by the liver being overloaded or damaged, or by the inability to move processed bilirubin from the liver through the biliary tract to the gut."
Symptoms
Jaundice typically appears on a baby's face, chest, arms, belly and legs. The whites of the eyes will also take on a yellowed appearance. According to the CDC, "jaundice can be harder to see in babies with darker skin color."
Diagnosing
Your family doctor can run a test to check the level of bilirubin in your child's body. If your baby's bilirubin level is high, your doctor may recommend you returning within a week to test the level of bilirubin again in order to properly diagnose jaundice.
Risk Factors
Previous children with jaundice, preterm babies (those born before 37 weeks) and babies born with bruises all have risk factors for jaundice. Babies born to women with an O or Rh negative blood type as well as babies born to Middle Eastern and East Asian parents are also at risk.
Misconceptions
Although it is common knowledge that babies should be placed in the sunlight for about 10 to 15 minutes a day in order to treat jaundice, it is not considered safe. Babies with jaundice should be undressed and treated with a special light either at home or at the hospital.
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