Symptoms:
A yellowing of the skin is seen in the infant, appearing first in the upper body and progressing downward toward the toes. In the full-term normal baby, it is first seen about the third day; and, by the fifth day, it is disappearing. In a pre-term infant, jaundice may appear later, but last longer.


Cause:
Jaundice is probably the most common disorder in newborn babies. Old blood is broken down, by the liver, into bilirubin, a yellowish pigment. But when too much is made, the excess is dumped into the bloodstream and is deposited in tissues for temporary storage. About a fifth of infants have this, to one extent or another.

"Breast milk jaundice" occurs in about 3% of infants. Peak levels of bilirubin do not occur until the tenth or fifteenth day, and may not return to normal for 12 weeks. But do not stop breast-feeding during this time.

If the baby has prolonged jaundice, have a thyroid check done; he might have a tendency toward hypothyroidism (which see).

Certain drugs given to the mother during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and breast-feeding can lead to neonatal jaundice. This includes sulfonamides, hydrocortisone, Valium, Orinase, Gentamicin, thiazide diuretics, and oral contraceptives.

Treatment:
• If the baby is breast-fed more frequently, the bowel movements will carry bilirubin out of the body faster. One research team found that the 3-4 hour feedings, recommended by many hospitals, is incorrect; the feedings should be every 2 hours, in order to reduce bilirubin levels.

• Activated charcoal is very helpful in lowering bilirubin levels. Stir 2-3 teaspoons powdered charcoal into a little water, and give with a nipple. Beginning at 4 hours of age, give it every two hours, for 120 hours in normal newborns, 168 hours in premature infants or until bilirubin levels fall.

• Exposure to sunlight helps reduce bilirubin levels. It can fall on the infant a little through the window or he can be taken outside. Do not let direct sunlight enter his eyes, but let it fall on as much bare skin as possible. Of course, be careful and do not sunburn him.