 |
 |
 |
|
||
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
Post partumNewborn jaundiceNewborn jaundice is a common, temporary condition that shows up soon after birth. In a healthy newborn, jaundice usually goes away without any treatment. It is caused by a buildup in bilirubin, an orange/yellow pigment (coloring) found in bile. Normally this bile pigment is broken down in the liver and passed in the stool. In jaundice, the bilirubin can’t be broken down fast enough and it builds up in the blood giving the infant a yellow cast to their skin. The whites of their eyes may also be yellow. The stools may also be lighter in color. To check the level of bilirubin in an infant, a blood test is performed.Jaundice can be worrisome if the bilirubin level is too high in the blood. If you notice your infant’s coloring to be yellowish, call your baby’s health care provider. Treatment for Jaundice In mild to moderate cases of jaundice, normal infant feedings will help the intestine excrete bilirubin through stool. If it does not clear on its own, your baby may be treated with special ultraviolet lights which alter bilirubin, making it easier to clear. During light therapy, your newborn may have more frequent loose stools, which is a good indication that the bilirubin is being eliminated. In rare situations where bilirubin levels do not drop, a blood exchange may be necessary. A blood exchange involves removing some of the infant’s blood and replacing it with donor blood. See also the following topics:
|
|
 Clinicians | Practices | All About Pregnancy | All About MidLife | Health & Wellness | Home  ©2001-2002 Women's Health USA, Inc. |