Newborn Jaundice: Causes, Dangerous Levels and Phototherapy Treatment

Yes — neonatal jaundice in newborn babies is a treatable condition. Understand its causes and take your baby to the doctor promptly if their skin starts to look yellow. Jaundice happens because of a build-up of the compound bilirubin, as the baby’s liver cells are still too immature to process waste from old red blood cells.

What Causes Newborn Jaundice?

Jaundice happens because of a build-up of bilirubin in the blood, as the baby’s liver cells are still too immature to process waste from old red blood cells. This condition often worries parents, especially first-time parents.

Dangerous Levels (Severe Hyperbilirubinaemia)

Generally, jaundice becomes visible 2 to 4 days after birth, starting with yellowing of the head and eyes. If the level climbs above >250 umol/L (depending on the baby’s age-based parameters), permanent damage to nerve cells can occur if it is left untreated. Monitoring bilirubin levels under medical supervision is therefore essential.

The Modern Solution: Phototherapy

Phototherapy is a procedure that shines a specific blue-wavelength light on the baby. The frequency of phototherapy light helps break down bilirubin toxins into a more manageable liquid form, so the baby’s system (urine and stools) can flush them out quickly and effectively.

The Role of Feeding

Mothers are encouraged to feed the baby more frequently (direct feeds every hour) to help push bilirubin out through urine and stools. If you are expressing milk to build a stock, make sure you know how to store and thaw expressed breast milk safely so that nutrient quality is preserved.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice your baby’s skin starting to turn yellow, especially within 2 to 4 days after birth, take them to the doctor immediately for a bilirubin level check. Importantly: traditional herbal baths, herbs, folk remedies and even sengkuang (jicama) water are strictly forbidden by O&G doctors — do not try them as jaundice treatments. During the same period, proper cord care is equally important — read the guide to umbilical cord care and sponge baths for newborns.

This article is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult your doctor or midwife.

References

• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). “Neonatal jaundice.”