Overview

Seen in 50–60% of newborns. Most cases are physiological but some may be pathological due to blood group incompatibility or liver issues.

Causes

• Immature liver enzyme function
• ABO or Rh incompatibility
• Bruising or birth trauma
• Breastfeeding jaundice (due to poor intake)

Symptoms

• Yellowing of skin and eyes
• Sleepiness or poor feeding
• High-pitched cry (in severe cases)
• Starts at face, spreads down body

Treatment: Modern Medicine

• Diagnosis: Serum bilirubin levels, blood group, Coombs test
• Treatment:
  • Phototherapy (blue light)
  • Exchange transfusion (severe cases)
  • Encourage frequent breastfeeding
  • Monitor bilirubin hourly in high-risk cases

Treatment: Traditional Medicine

• Ayurveda: Haritaki, Guduchi, and mild detox herbs (post phototherapy support)
• Siddha: Liver tonic drops (Siriya Siruthai)
• Unani: Sharbat-e-Banafsha, cooling herbs
• TCM: Yin chen hao tang, gentle liver support
• Homeopathy: Chelidonium, Nux vomica (only with pediatric approval)
• Nutraceuticals: Vitamin D drops, support for breastfeeding mother

Caution

• Severe jaundice can cause brain damage (kernicterus)
• Monitor all babies, especially preterm or those with risk factors

Prevention

• Early breastfeeding initiation (within 1 hour of birth)
• Monitor newborn for yellowing daily for first week
• Rh screening in pregnancy