How to Diagnose Jaundice in Babies
Jaundice is a condition that causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. It is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down.
Jaundice is common in newborns, and it usually goes away on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, jaundice can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
Symptoms of Jaundice in Babies
The most common symptom of jaundice is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Other symptoms can include:
Dark urine
Light-colored stools
Fatigue
Irritability
Poor feeding
How to Diagnose Jaundice in Babies
Your doctor can diagnose jaundice by examining your baby's skin and eyes. They may also order a blood test to measure the level of bilirubin in your baby's blood.
Treatment for Jaundice in Babies
The treatment for jaundice depends on the cause of the condition. In most cases, jaundice will go away on its own within a few weeks. However, if your baby's jaundice is severe or if it is caused by an underlying condition, your doctor may recommend treatment.
Treatment options for jaundice include:
Phototherapy: This involves exposing your baby to a special type of light that helps to break down bilirubin.
Exchange transfusion: This is a procedure in which your baby's blood is replaced with new blood.
When to Call the Doctor
You should call your doctor if your baby has any of the following symptoms:
Jaundice that is severe or that does not go away after a few weeks
Dark urine
Light-colored stools
Fatigue
Irritability
Poor feeding
Preventing Jaundice in Babies
There is no sure way to prevent jaundice in babies. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your baby's risk of developing jaundice, such as:
Breastfeeding your baby: Breast milk contains factors that help to prevent jaundice.
Avoiding giving your baby formula: Formula can increase your baby's risk of developing jaundice.
Getting your baby enough sunlight: Sunlight helps to break down bilirubin.
Outlook for Jaundice in Babies
Most cases of jaundice in babies are mild and will go away on their own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, jaundice can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. If your baby's jaundice is severe or if it does not go away after a few weeks, your doctor may recommend treatment.
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