Jaundice (yellowish skin tone) in the infant usually begins on the face. However, it can spread to other areas such as the chest, abdomen, arms and legs of the newborn. In addition, if bilirubin levels remain elevated and the baby is not properly treated to lower them, brain damage (kernicterus) can occur.
To avoid this situation and serious complications, it is important to monitor your baby and see your health care provider promptly if your baby has:
- Severe jaundice that worsens or spreads.
- Drowsiness.
- Feeding problems.
- Irritability.
- Intense, high-pitched crying
- Body arched backwards.
This way the baby can be evaluated and receive the most appropriate treatment as soon as possible to prevent more serious complications from occurring.
Read the full article on: Is it normal for the newborn to have jaundice? What are the causes? ( 50).
By Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 02/14/2024
