You cradle your baby and notice a faint yellow tint on her chest. Your heart beats faster—could this be jaundice? Understanding newborn jaundice treatment gives you the power to act with confidence and protect your little one during those tender early weeks.
When Your Newborn Shows Yellow Signs
Many healthy babies develop a bit of jaundice in the first week. It’s your intuition as their mom that can help you catch it early. Look for:
- Yellowing skin: Press gently on the forehead or nose; a yellow hue as it blanches suggests rising bilirubin.
- Yellow eyes: Check the whites of the eyes under good light.
- Sleepiness or poor feeding: Babies with higher bilirubin can be unusually drowsy or fussy at feeds.
- Fewer wet diapers: Notice if your baby has fewer than six wet nappies in 24 hours.
If you see these signs, reach out to your pediatrician. According to the Indian Academy of Pediatrics consensus guidelines, about 60% of full-term and 80% of preterm infants develop jaundice in their first week.
Newborn Jaundice Treatment Options You Need to Know
When bilirubin climbs too high, treatment is essential. Here’s what your doctor may recommend for newborn jaundice treatment:
- Phototherapy
Special blue-light lamps break down bilirubin in the skin. Most babies respond within 24–48 hours. - Frequent feeds
Breastfeed or bottle-feed 8–12 times in 24 hours to help flush bilirubin through urine and stools. - Exchange transfusion
In rare, severe cases, a small amount of your baby’s blood is replaced to quickly lower bilirubin levels. - Supplemental feeding
If your baby struggles with breastfeeding, expressed breast milk or formula ensures adequate hydration.
Warning: Untreated high bilirubin can lead to kernicterus, a form of brain damage. Always follow your doctor’s phototherapy schedule and never attempt it with home lighting without medical supervision.
Supporting Newborn Jaundice Treatment at Home
Your care continues long after you leave the hospital. Small steps at home can boost your baby’s recovery:
- Keep feeds on track: Set reminders to feed every 2–3 hours, day and night.
- Track nappies: Aim for 6–8 wet nappies daily; this shows good hydration.
- Sunlight breaks: Short, indirect morning sun exposure (5–10 minutes) can help lower bilirubin—always under supervision.
- Gentle tummy time: Short sessions a few times a day encourage digestion and elimination.
These simple measures work hand-in-hand with medical treatment to clear bilirubin more quickly.
When to Seek Help: Trust Your Gut
Jaundice often fades with treatment, but you should act fast if:
- Jaundice appears in the first 24 hours after birth
- Bilirubin rises sharply on daily checks
- Your baby refuses multiple feeds or shows signs of dehydration
- You notice high-pitched crying, arching back, or muscle rigidity
If any of these occur, visit a pediatric facility equipped for bilirubin testing and advanced newborn jaundice treatment without delay.
Conclusion
Your baby’s gentle yellow glow can be unsettling, but with the right care, most infants recover completely. By watching for early signs and following proven treatment steps, you can give your newborn the very best start.
For personalized guidance, book an appointment with a Paloma Care doctor today and get expert newborn care support.
References:
