Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, affecting nearly 60% of full-term infants and up to 80% of premature infants.
This condition causes a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, which can be alarming for new parents. It occurs when there is a buildup of bilirubin, a substance produced when red blood cells break down. While jaundice is usually not serious, it is important to understand how it develops and the steps that can be taken to treat it effectively.
This article explores what helps get rid of jaundice in newborns, outlining the treatments available, as well as advice for parents on how to care for their newborn during this condition.
Understanding Jaundice in Newborns
Jaundice in newborns typically results from the liver’s inability to process bilirubin quickly enough. Newborns are born with high levels of red blood cells, and as these cells break down, bilirubin is produced. However, their immature liver may not be capable of processing bilirubin at the same rate as it needs to. In most cases, the condition clears up on its own as the baby’s liver matures, but certain treatments can help accelerate this process and prevent complications.
Types of Jaundice
There are several types of jaundice, each caused by different factors:
Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common form and occurs due to the natural breakdown of red blood cells in the early days of life.
It typically appears between the second and fifth day after birth and resolves on its own within two weeks.
Breastfeeding Jaundice: This type of jaundice is linked to insufficient feeding. If a baby is not nursing well or getting enough milk, dehydration can contribute to higher bilirubin levels.
Breastmilk Jaundice: This occurs in a small number of babies due to a substance in breast milk that can interfere with the liver’s ability to process bilirubin.
Pathological Jaundice: This is less common and may be caused by underlying conditions, such as blood group incompatibilities, infections, or liver disease. Pathological jaundice appears within the first 24 hours of life and requires medical attention.
Treatments to Help Get Rid of Jaundice in Newborns
1. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
One of the most effective and commonly used treatments for jaundice is phototherapy. This method uses special blue light to break down bilirubin in the baby’s body. The light helps convert bilirubin into a form that the baby’s liver can process and excrete more easily.
In most cases, phototherapy involves placing the baby under a special light source. The baby may need to wear only a diaper and protective eye patches to prevent damage to their eyes from the light.
Phototherapy is generally safe, and babies typically show improvement within 24 to 48 hours of treatment.
There are two main types of phototherapy:
Conventional Phototherapy: A baby is placed under a fluorescent light or light-emitting diode (LED) that emits blue light.
Fiberoptic Phototherapy: A fiberoptic blanket or pad, which emits light, is placed under the baby. This type of phototherapy allows more freedom for the baby to be held while receiving treatment.
Phototherapy is usually performed in the hospital, but in some cases, it may be done at home with the help of portable devices if the jaundice is mild.
2. Frequent Feeding
Ensuring that your baby is feeding frequently is a key part of managing jaundice. Breastfeeding or formula feeding every 2 to 3 hours helps stimulate the baby’s digestive system, which promotes the breakdown and excretion of bilirubin through urine and stool.
If breastfeeding is the issue, some doctors may recommend supplementing with formula to ensure the baby is getting enough fluids and nutrients. This can help reduce dehydration, which can exacerbate jaundice.
If a baby is having difficulty breastfeeding, consulting with a lactation consultant may be beneficial. Sometimes, simply improving latch techniques or addressing breastfeeding challenges can help the baby feed more effectively.
3. Hydration
Keeping the baby hydrated is crucial for managing jaundice. Adequate fluid intake ensures that the baby produces enough urine and stool to help eliminate bilirubin from their body.
Breast milk or formula provides the hydration a newborn needs. In some cases of jaundice, if the baby is not feeding well enough, intravenous (IV) fluids might be administered in a hospital setting to help maintain hydration and support liver function.
4. Exchange Transfusion
In rare cases of severe jaundice, where bilirubin levels are dangerously high and not responding to other treatments, an exchange transfusion may be necessary. This procedure involves removing some of the baby’s blood and replacing it with donor blood to quickly reduce bilirubin levels.
This treatment is typically used when jaundice is caused by blood group incompatibilities, or if the baby is at risk for complications like brain damage due to extremely high bilirubin levels (a condition known as kernicterus).
5. Medication
In some cases, medication may be used to treat jaundice in newborns, particularly if there is an underlying cause such as an infection or a blood disorder. Some medications can help improve the liver’s ability to process bilirubin or treat the underlying condition that’s causing jaundice. However, medication is usually not the first line of treatment for typical newborn jaundice.
6. Sunlight Exposure
While not a substitute for medical treatment, exposure to natural sunlight can help lower bilirubin levels in mild cases of jaundice. The natural ultraviolet light can break down bilirubin in the skin. If your baby’s jaundice is mild, placing them in a well-lit room with indirect sunlight for short periods may be beneficial. However, you should avoid direct sunlight exposure to reduce the risk of sunburn or overheating.
7. Close Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular follow-up appointments with the pediatrician are essential for babies with jaundice, especially during the first few days and weeks of life. Monitoring bilirubin levels and checking the baby’s progress helps determine whether treatment is working or if further interventions are necessary.
In some cases, if jaundice persists or worsens, further medical tests may be required to rule out other conditions, such as liver disease or blood disorders, which may require more specialized treatment.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
While most cases of newborn jaundice resolve on their own, it is essential to seek medical attention if you notice any of the following:
The yellowing of the baby’s skin and eyes appears within the first 24 hours of life (this may indicate a more serious underlying condition).
The jaundice seems to worsen after the first few days or is not improving with phototherapy.
The baby is not feeding well, is excessively sleepy, or has trouble staying awake during feedings.
There is a change in the baby’s stool color or the baby’s urine becomes dark.
These could be signs that the jaundice is due to an underlying condition that requires medical intervention.
Conclusion
Jaundice in newborns is common and usually not a cause for concern, but it is important to monitor and treat it promptly to prevent complications. Phototherapy, frequent feeding, and hydration are the primary methods used to manage the condition. While most cases of jaundice resolve without complications, it is essential for parents to stay vigilant and consult a healthcare provider if they have any concerns.
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