Jaundice in Newborn Babies

Jaundice is a common condition in newborn infants.  It is usually not dangerous.  The word "jaundice" comes from the French word "jaune," meaning "yellow."  It describes the yellowish or light orange appearance of the whites of the eyes and skin of many newborn babies. 

Jaundice usually appears on the second or third day of life in healthy babies born after a full-term pregnancy.  It often disappears within a week.  About 50% of full-term infants get jaundice.  In premature babies, it is even more likely to develop.

In most babies, jaundice occurs because the liver and other organs are not yet fully mature.  This is particularly true in low-birth-weight or premature babies.  One function of the liver is to rid the blood of extra bilirubin.  Bilirubin is formed from the normal breakdown of old red blood cells.  Until a baby's liver begins to function fully, bilirubin tends to build up in the baby's bloodstream, causing the skin and the whites of the eyes to become yellow.

REMEMBER:

Jaundice in newborn babies is very common. 
Jaundice is only harmful if the bilirubin in your baby's blood gets too high
If you are breastfeeding, make sure you are getting the help you need to assure things are going well.

(Article from Similac)

When all else fells.......

OPEN UP YOUR WINDOW AND LET GOD'S PRECIOUS ANGEL SOAK UP SOME SUN RAYS!!!  This is the only time I recommend baby getting a sun tan.....LOL ( From my wise mother and grandma)