Neonatal Jaundice (NNJ is a yellow discolouration of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Mild jaundice is quite common in newborn period and is usually a temporary condition that causes no problems in the vast majority of babies.
The yellow colour of the skin is the main symptom of jaundice usually beginning on the baby’s face and moving down to the chest, abdomen, legs and finally to the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The discolouration is also seen in the whites of the eyes. Sleepiness and poor feeding may also be present in infants who have significant jaundice
Jaundice is a common condition in newborns and it cannot be prevented. It is important to ensure good fluid intake for all newborn babies. Jaundice is often exaggerated with mild dehydration. Mild jaundice in the first week needs no treatment except attention to hydration. One can prevent jaundice levels reaching very high by timely phototherapy and treatment of any risk factors (e.g. infection, Blood group incompatibility etc.)
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