Newborn jaundice and warning signs to call a doctor

What newborn jaundice is

Jaundice is a yellow tint to a baby's skin and the whites of the eyes, caused by bilirubin building up in the blood. It is very common in newborns, often appearing in the first few days of life, and is frequently mild and temporary. However, high bilirubin levels can occasionally be harmful, so jaundice is monitored closely.

What to watch for

Yellowing that starts on the face and spreads to the chest, belly, arms, or legs, or a baby who is very sleepy, feeding poorly, or hard to wake, should be evaluated. Jaundice appearing in the first 24 hours of life always needs prompt medical attention.

General newborn warning signs

Contact a healthcare provider promptly if a newborn has a fever (a rectal temperature of 100.4°F / 38°C or higher), is unusually difficult to wake or unusually floppy, is refusing feeds or feeding very poorly, has fewer wet diapers than expected, has trouble breathing, or has persistent vomiting. Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, it is always appropriate to seek advice.

Emergencies

Seek emergency care immediately for a baby who is struggling to breathe, turning blue, unresponsive, or having a seizure. In an emergency, call your local emergency number rather than waiting.

When to check with a professional

Bilirubin is measured with a simple test, and treatments such as phototherapy are effective when needed. Any concern about a newborn's color, alertness, or feeding is a good reason to contact your pediatrician.