Your baby is likely yellow because they have infant jaundice, a common condition in newborns.
Understanding Infant Jaundice
Infant jaundice causes a yellowing of the skin and eyes. This yellow color comes from a buildup of bilirubin in the baby's blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down.
Why Does This Happen?
- Immature Liver: Infant jaundice usually occurs because a baby's liver isn't mature enough to effectively get rid of bilirubin in the bloodstream. A newborn's liver is still developing and may not be able to process bilirubin as quickly as an adult's liver.
- Increased Red Blood Cell Breakdown: Babies have a higher concentration of red blood cells than adults. These red blood cells break down quickly after birth, leading to increased bilirubin production.
Key Factors Contributing to Jaundice
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Liver Immaturity | The baby's liver isn't fully developed and struggles to process bilirubin efficiently. |
| Bilirubin Buildup | Bilirubin, a yellow pigment, accumulates in the bloodstream. |
| Underlying Disease | In some cases, an underlying disease may cause infant jaundice. |
| Gestational Age | Most infants born between 35 weeks' gestation and full term need no treatment for jaundice. |
Is it Serious?
Most of the time, jaundice is mild and resolves on its own within a week or two. However, it's important to have your baby checked by a doctor to determine the bilirubin level. High levels of bilirubin can, in rare cases, lead to brain damage if left untreated.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Although jaundice is common, it is crucial to monitor your baby and consult a doctor if you observe any of the following:
- Your baby's skin becomes more yellow.
- Your baby is difficult to wake or is very sleepy.
- Your baby isn't feeding well.
- Your baby develops a high-pitched cry.
- Your baby becomes limp or arch their back.
