Jaundice is a condition where there is excessive bilirubin (pigment) in the body. According to IDAI, jaundice is often found in about 60% of healthy newborns because their bodies are not yet able to get rid of bilirubin perfectly. Jaundice in newborns will disappear within 14 days or so after birth, depending on the condition of each baby. Even so, parents must know the characteristics of a dangerous yellow baby.
Normal Bilirubin Levels in Infants
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced by the breakdown of red blood cells in the body. In infants, especially newborns, bilirubin levels are often a concern as they can cause jaundice. Bilirubin levels in infants are usually measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Normal bilirubin levels in newborns are below 5.2 mg/dL. Whereas more than 5 mg/dL is called hyperbilirubinemia.
Launching from the IDAI page, Hyperbilirubinemia is generally normal, only 10% have the potential to become pathological (bilirubin encephalopathy).
Here is the range of bilirubin levels in newborns that require medical treatment:
- Infants less than 1 day old: > 10 mg/dL
- Infants 1-2 days old: > 15 mg/dL
- Infants 2-3 days old: 18 mg/dL
- Infants more than 3 days old: > 20 mg/dL
After the fifth day, bilirubin levels usually start to decrease. However, it is important to note that every baby has different bilirubin levels, and factors such as prematurity, delivery method, and family medical history can affect bilirubin levels.
Causes of Elevated Bilirubin
Some factors that can cause elevated bilirubin levels in newborns include:
- Prematurity: Babies born prematurely have an immature liver that is less efficient in processing bilirubin.
- Blood Type: Blood group differences between mother and baby may lead to faster breakdown of red blood cells.
- Breastfeeding: Babies who are not getting enough breast milk may have elevated bilirubin due to dehydration or low-calorie intake.
7 Dangerous Characteristics of a Yellow Baby
Jaundice in newborns is a common condition that is usually harmless. However, there are some signs that parents should watch out for as they could indicate that the baby's bilirubin levels are too high and require medical intervention. Here are seven signs of a dangerously yellow baby to watch out for:
1. Yellowing that Appears in the First 24 Hours
If the baby's skin and eyes begin to turn yellow within the first 24 hours after birth, this could be a sign of a serious problem as bilirubin levels do not usually increase rapidly in this period. Consult a doctor immediately.
2. Yellow that Spreads Throughout the Body
In general, jaundice starts from the face and spreads to the lower body. If the jaundice reaches the thighs or legs and spreads throughout the body, it indicates very high bilirubin levels and requires immediate medical attention.
3. Rapid Skin Color Change
If a baby's yellow skin color becomes more intense or spreads rapidly within a few hours, this is an alarming sign and requires immediate medical assessment.
4. Lethargic or Difficult to Wake
Babies who are excessively sleepy or difficult to wake up may have high bilirubin levels. Lethargy or excessive fatigue could be a sign that bilirubin has affected the central nervous system.
5. Refusal to Breastfeed or Drink
Babies who refuse to breastfeed or drink formula may have elevated bilirubin levels. Underfeeding can aggravate jaundice as bilirubin is not excreted in the stool.
6. Shrill Crying or Excessive Fussing
Shrill cries, unusual fussiness, or signs of extreme discomfort could indicate a serious bilirubin problem, which may have affected the baby's nervous system.
7. Changes in Movement or Reflexes
If the baby shows signs of stiffness, weakness, or unusual movements, this could be an indication that high bilirubin levels have affected the brain. Changes in reflexes can also be a sign to look out for.
Also, be aware of jaundice that is accompanied by other symptoms such as seizures and fever. As well as changes in the color of the baby's stool, yellow that does not disappear in the near future and bilirubin levels that do not decrease for more than 14 days.
Those are the characteristics of a dangerous yellow baby that parents should be aware of. Hopefully, understanding the difference between normal and abnormal yellow in newborns can help moms and dads take care of their little ones to grow and develop optimally.
Moms and dads are also required to provide comfort for newborns by providing anti-clump and thin diapers such as MAKUKU SAP Diapers. Besides being comfortable, MAKUKU diapers are equipped with advanced features that effectively reduce the risk of diaper rash. (Aq/MKK)
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