Last modified on January 2021
With inputs from Dr.Jisha B, General Physician
Key Takeaway:
– Jaundice is a condition associated with the yellowing of skin and eyes due to the build-up of a substance known as bilirubin in the blood. It occurs in both adults and children for many reasons, however, it is more common in children.
– In many cases, the causes of jaundice in newborns are physiological – the immaturity of the baby’s liver to regulate bilirubin levels, and diminish soon. More serious causes include blood cell diseases, hereditary conditions, haemolytic disease, bruising at birth, infections such as sepsis, UTI and herpes simplex and more.
– The causes of jaundice in toddlers and young kids and adolescents include obstructive jaundice, liver enzyme deficiencies, endocrine disorders, hepatitis and other viral infections.
– Symptoms of jaundice in kids (apart from the yellowing of skin and eyes) are fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea and colour changes in urine and stools. It is important to consult a neonatologist if you begin to see these symptoms in your child.
– The jaundice diagnosis primarily involves a physical examination and a complete blood count test.
– Jaundice treatments are usually specific to the cause of jaundice. A gastroenterologist on MFine would be able to advise treatments after diagnosing the underlying cause of jaundice in your child.
– Preventing jaundice in children may not always be possible. However, neonatologists and gastroenterologists on Mfine are always there to support you with treatment plans, prevention tips and nursing care plans for your child whenever you need.