Jaundice in newborn babies

Jaundice, or yellowish discolouring of the skin, eye and/or urine is common after about 30 hours of life. It usually starts from the face and progresses downwards, reaching a peak about the third or the fourth day and usually disappears in seven to 14 days.

Continue feeding your child normally during this period and consult your doctor if you feel the yellow colour has increased.

Jaundice has an early rise, prolonged course and late disappearance in preterm and sick babies.

If it appears on the first day of life in an otherwise healthy newborn, it can be quite dangerous and warrants immediate medical attention.