What is Jaundice?
Jaundice is a common condition in newborns that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes. This happens when there is too much bilirubin, a yellow substance produced when red blood cells break down, in the baby’s blood. While it is often harmless, it can sometimes indicate a more serious health problem.
Bilirubin is a yellow substance that forms when red blood cells break down. When a baby is still in the mother’s womb, the mother’s liver helps get rid of something called bilirubin. After the baby is born, the baby’s own liver has to do this job. Sometimes, a baby’s liver might not be strong enough to get rid of all the bilirubin. When this happens, it can make the baby’s skin look yellow.
This is called jaundice and it’s pretty common in babies. Usually, it goes away on its own after a few weeks. But it’s important to let a doctor check your baby for jaundice because if it’s really bad, it can hurt the baby’s brain.
Prevalence of Jaundice Globally and in Nigeria
Jaundice is a common condition worldwide, especially among newborns. Globally, about 60% of full-term babies and 80% of premature babies develop jaundice within the first week of life. In Nigeria, the rates are similar, with many newborns showing signs of jaundice shortly after birth.
While most cases are mild and resolve with proper care, some can be more severe, especially if left untreated. This makes early detection and treatment crucial for the health and development of babies in Nigeria and around the world.
Causes of Jaundice
Jaundice in babies can be caused by several factors, including:
- Immature Liver: Newborns have immature livers, which may not be able to remove bilirubin efficiently.
- Breastfeeding: Some babies develop it due to breastfeeding issues, like dehydration or not getting enough milk.
- Blood Type Mismatch: If the mother’s blood type is different from the baby’s, it can lead to a condition where the baby’s red blood cells break down too quickly, causing it.
- Premature Birth: Premature babies have an even more immature liver, making them more prone to jaundice.
Risk Factors for Jaundice
Several factors increase the risk of a baby developing it, including:
- Premature birth (before 37 weeks).
- Blood type differences between mother and baby.
- Sibling history.
- Difficulty breastfeeding.
- Bruising during birth.
Symptoms of Jaundice
The most noticeable symptom of jaundice is the yellowing of the baby’s skin and the whites of their eyes. This usually starts on the face and then spreads to the chest, stomach, arms, and legs. Other symptoms may include:
- Dark urine (in babies, urine is normally colorless).
- Pale-colored stool.
- Lethargy or difficulty waking up.
- Poor feeding.
Jaundice Timeline: When to Expect It
It usually starts a couple of days after the baby is born and goes away by the time the baby is 2 weeks old.
For babies born too early (premature babies), it might take 5 to 7 days to show up and can last for about 3 weeks.
Babies who only drink breast milk might also have it for a longer time, sometimes even a few months.
Diagnosis of Jaundice
In some cases, other tests like a liver function test or imaging tests may be done to find out the its cause.
This simple process helps doctors determine the best way to treat the condition, ensuring the baby’s health and well-being.
Medical Treatment for Jaundice
In most cases, jaundice in babies will resolve on its own as the baby’s liver matures
However, in more severe cases, treatment may include:
- Phototherapy: The baby is placed under a special light that helps break down bilirubin in the skin.
- Exchange Transfusion: In very severe cases, the baby may need a blood transfusion to replace their blood with fresh blood that has normal bilirubin levels.
- Feeding Support: Ensuring the baby is feeding well, either through breastfeeding or formula, helps reduce bilirubin levels by encouraging bowel movements.
Traditional Treatment for Jaundice
In some Nigerian communities, traditional treatments for it include herbal remedies and sunbathing the baby. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using traditional methods, as they may not be effective and could delay proper treatment.
Preventive Measures During Pregnancy
To reduce the risk of jaundice in babies, pregnant women should take the following precautions:
- Regular Prenatal Care: Regular check-ups can help monitor the baby’s health and identify any potential risks early on.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports the baby’s development and reduces the risk of complications.
- Blood Type Testing: Knowing your blood type and that of the father can help prepare for potential blood type incompatibility.
- Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: These substances can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including jaundice.
Conclusion
Jaundice is a common condition among newborns in Nigeria, but with proper care and attention, it can be effectively managed. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of your baby.
Regular prenatal care and being aware of the risk factors can help prevent it and ensure a healthy start for your child.
