Doctors Near You for Newborn Jaundice in Wollongong

Newborn jaundice is a common condition characterized by a yellowish discoloration of a baby's skin and eyes, caused by an excess of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. In newborns, the liver is often immature and may not process bilirubin efficiently, leading to its accumulation in the bloodstream. This condition is particularly noticeable in the first few days of life and can range from mild to severe. There are several causes of newborn jaundice. Physiologic jaundice, which occurs in most newborns, is a result of the liver's immaturity and typically resolves within two to three weeks as the liver matures. Breastfeeding jaundice can occur if the baby is not feeding well, leading to dehydration and inadequate bowel movements, which reduces bilirubin excretion. Breast milk jaundice, a more prolonged form, is linked to substances in the mother's milk that can affect bilirubin metabolism and usually appears after the first week of life. Pathologic jaundice can result from conditions such as hemolytic disease of the newborn, where blood type incompatibility between mother and baby causes increased red blood cell breakdown, or other underlying medical issues. Treatment for newborn jaundice varies based on the severity and underlying cause. Mild cases often resolve on their own with frequent feeding and proper hydration. More severe cases may require phototherapy, where the baby is placed under special lights that help break down bilirubin in the skin. In rare instances, exchange transfusions might be needed to rapidly reduce bilirubin levels. Close monitoring by healthcare professionals ensures that jaundice is managed effectively and does not lead to complications.