Prolonged Jaundice in Newborns: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Prolonged jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin that persists beyond three weeks in a term baby, can indicate underlying health issues. In term babies, prolonged jaundice is defined by bilirubin levels remaining above 10 mg/dL after three weeks. Though jaundice often resolves naturally, persistent symptoms may require evaluation to rule out certain conditions.
What Causes Prolonged Jaundice in Newborns?
Several factors contribute to prolonged jaundice, including:
1. Inadequate Feeding: Jaundice may last longer in breastfed babies if feeding isn’t optimal.
2. Breast Milk Jaundice: Found in 2-4% of exclusively breastfed term babies, this form of jaundice persists beyond the third or fourth week.
3. Extravasated Blood (Cephalohematoma): Blood pooled under the scalp can lead to jaundice if not resolved.
4. Hemolytic Disease and G6PD Deficiency: Conditions that cause red blood cell breakdown increase bilirubin levels.
5. Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid levels can slow bilirubin clearance from the body.
Recognizing Symptoms of Prolonged Jaundice at Home
Common symptoms include:
– Yellowing of the eyes and skin beyond three weeks of age.
– Dark urine and pale stool, which may suggest cholestasis, a liver condition.
– Slow weight gain or signs of lethargy, which could indicate underlying health issues.
Diagnostic Tests for Prolonged Jaundice
Your pediatrician may suggest certain tests to diagnose the cause of prolonged jaundice, including:
– Direct and indirect bilirubin levels to differentiate between types of jaundice.
– Stool and urine color assessment to identify signs of cholestasis.
– Thyroid screening, hemolysis tests, and G6PD deficiency screening.
– Urinalysis if a urinary tract infection is suspected.
Breastfeeding and Prolonged Jaundice: Understanding Breastfeeding Jaundice vs. Breast Milk Jaundice
Breastfeeding jaundice may occur due to inadequate feeding, leading to mild jaundice that peaks around 5-15 days but can last into the third week. Increasing breastfeeding frequency and ensuring effective feeding usually help to resolve this.
Breast Milk Jaundice, affecting 2-4% of breastfed infants, can last beyond four weeks without underlying illness. For babies with breast milk jaundice, bilirubin levels typically decline over time, and parents should continue breastfeeding.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you observe prolonged yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools, or other symptoms, contact a pediatrician to determine if tests or treatment are needed.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal for my baby’s eyes to remain yellow after three weeks?
A: While jaundice is common, prolonged yellowing beyond three weeks should be assessed to rule out underlying conditions.
Q: Should I stop breastfeeding if my baby has prolonged jaundice?
A: No, breastfeeding is encouraged even in cases of breast milk jaundice. Consult your pediatrician for advice specific to your baby’s condition.
Q: What is breast milk jaundice, and does it harm the baby?
A: Breast milk jaundice is a benign condition that may prolong jaundice slightly in breastfed babies but generally resolves over time without harm.
Contact Us
For more guidance on newborn jaundice or to schedule a consultation, please call Dr Vinit Mehta [+918347990180]. Know about the Newborn Care services provided at Aashrey Child Clinic [Click here].
Related Articles
– [When to Admit the Newborn for Neonatal Jaundice (Phototherapy and Exchange Range)]
External Resources
– [American Academy of Pediatrics – Jaundice in Newborns] – [World Health Organization – Guidelines on Newborn Jaundice]