Infant Jaundice is a condition in which a yellowish-orange discoloration of the skin, whites of the eyes, and other mucous membranes is seen in newborn babies. This condition usually occurs in newborn babies due to an accumulation of yellow pigment in the blood circulation that is caused by an immature liver or certain underlying medical conditions. While it is a common condition that is usually not serious, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of infant jaundice in order to seek treatment when necessary. This article will describe symptoms, causes, and treatment options for infant jaundice. Keep on reading to know about it!
Symptoms of Infant Jaundice:
The common symptoms of infants jaundice are as follows:
1. Yellow Skin and Eyes:
This is the most common symptom of infant jaundice and can present itself as a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes.
2. Excessive Sleeping:
Babies with jaundice often display an increased amount of sleep in comparison to the average baby.
3. Dark Urine:
Urine that appears very dark in color can be indicative of infant jaundice.
4. Less Appetite:
Babies with infant jaundice may also have a decrease in appetite.
5. Fussiness:
Fussiness is also a common symptom in babies who have jaundice.
6. High-Pitched Crying:
Infants with jaundice can also exhibit high-pitched crying that lasts for a long period of time.
7. Difficulty Nursing:
Infant jaundice can make it difficult for babies to nurse effectively, leading to lower milk intake.
8. Seizures:
Infants who have jaundice may experience seizures due to its effects on the brain.
9. Vomiting:
Vomiting is another symptom of infant jaundice that may be associated with neurological issues.
10. Weight Loss:
Rapid weight loss is an indication that the baby may be suffering from infant jaundice.
Causes of Infant jaundice:
The causes of Infant jaundice are as follows:
1. Prematurity:
Premature infants are more likely to develop jaundice because their immature livers are not yet powerful enough to efficiently break down and process bilirubin in the body.
2. Blood Type Incompatibility:
A mother with type O blood may pass an antigen to the baby during the birth process. In turn, the baby’s immune system may produce antibodies to fight the antigen, which triggers a reaction that causes the infant’s red blood cells to break down more quickly. As a result, bilirubin levels can become elevated.
3. Breastfeeding:
Breastfeeding can cause jaundice due to the high sugar content of breast milk. This process, known as breastfeeding jaundice, is typically milder and goes away after the baby begins to feed with formula.
4. Dehydration:
Infants who are dehydrated are more likely to become jaundiced due to a higher concentration of bilirubin in their bodies.
5. Infection:
Bacterial infections such as sepsis can cause jaundice in infants by triggering the breakdown of red blood cells and the release of bilirubin into the bloodstream.
6. Liver Disease:
Liver diseases such as biliary atresia can be a cause of jaundice in infants. These diseases cause a blockage in the bile ducts, which leads to an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream.
7. Metabolic Disorders:
Metabolic disorders such as galactosemia or hypothyroidism cause jaundice due to an impaired ability to process bilirubin in the body.
8. Intrauterine Fetal Death:
When a baby dies in the uterus (intrauterine fetal death), blood cells can break down and release bilirubin into the baby’s system. This can cause jaundice in infants.
Treatment for infant jaundice:
The treatment options are as follows:
Phototherapy:
Phototherapy involves exposing your infant to special blue lights that break down the excess bilirubin in the bloodstream. It is usually administered in a hospital but can be done at home as well. Infants are often placed under light therapy machines which can be adjusted to provide the optimal amount of light required for a particular case of jaundice. It is important to ensure that the light does not exceed a certain temperature and to also follow your doctor’s instructions for administering the light therapy.
Exchange Transfusion:
An exchange transfusion may be necessary for jaundice cases that do not respond to phototherapy. During this procedure, the infant’s blood is removed and replaced with healthy donor blood. The procedure is done under the care of a skilled doctor and should only be done in extreme cases where phototherapy has not worked.
Reach Dr. Shankar Dhaka for infant jaundice treatment in Jaipur!
Dr. Shankar Dhaka is an experienced and skilled gastro who provides specialized care for infants suffering from jaundice in Jaipur. He is considered to be one of the leading experts in the field and has been providing clinical services for years. He has also contributed significantly to research on infant jaundice and its general management. Dr. Shankar Dhaka for infant jaundice treatment in Jaipur.
FAQ:
Q.1 What is infant jaundice?
Infant jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the skin or whites of the eyes caused by high levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream.
Q.2 How can I prevent infant jaundice?
You can prevent infant jaundice by providing your baby with plenty of feedings, keeping your baby warm, and monitoring their bilirubin levels.
Q.3 What can I do to help my baby who has jaundice?
To help your baby with jaundice, you can provide plenty of breast milk, put your baby in natural sunlight, and monitor their bilirubin levels.
Q.4 Is it safe to expose my jaundiced infant to sunlight?
Yes, it is safe to expose your jaundiced infant to sunlight for about 15 minutes a day, as it can help reduce their bilirubin levels.
Q.5 Are there any other ways I can reduce my baby’s jaundice?
Yes, other ways to reduce your baby’s jaundice include making sure they are getting enough fluids, keeping their skin cool, and using phototherapy to reduce bilirubin levels.
