sarvesh Health City

Posted on Jan 13

Types of Jaundice in Children and How Each Is Treated

Jaundice is a common condition in children, especially newborns, and is marked by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. While jaundice is often harmless and temporary, in some cases it may signal an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. Understanding the types of jaundice in children and how each is treated can help parents seek timely care. If you are looking for the best pediatric hospital in Hisar, Sarvesh Health City offers advanced diagnosis and child-focused treatment under experienced pediatric specialists.

What Is Jaundice in Children?

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. The liver processes bilirubin and helps remove it from the body. In children, jaundice occurs when bilirubin builds up faster than the liver can process or eliminate it. This leads to visible yellow discoloration of the skin, eyes, and sometimes mucous membranes.

While jaundice is more common in newborns, older infants and children can also develop it due to infections, liver conditions, or blood disorders.

Common Symptoms of Jaundice in Children

Yellowing of skin and eyes

Dark-colored urine

Pale or clay-colored stools

Poor feeding or loss of appetite

Fatigue or irritability

Fever (in some cases)

Abdominal pain or swelling (older children)

If these symptoms persist or worsen, consulting specialists at the best pediatric hospital in Hisar is essential for proper evaluation.

Types of Jaundice in Children and Their Treatment

Physiological Jaundice

What it is: Physiological jaundice is the most common type, especially in newborns. It occurs due to the immaturity of the baby’s liver, which is not yet efficient at processing bilirubin.

When it appears: Usually within 2–3 days after birth and resolves on its own within 1–2 weeks.

Treatment:

Regular feeding to help eliminate bilirubin through stool

Monitoring bilirubin levels

No medical treatment required in most cases

At Sarvesh Health City, pediatricians closely monitor newborn jaundice to ensure it remains within safe limits.

Breastfeeding Jaundice

What it is: This type occurs in breastfed babies who are not getting enough milk, leading to dehydration and reduced bilirubin excretion.

When it appears: Typically during the first week of life.

Treatment:

Improving breastfeeding techniques

Increasing feeding frequency

Lactation support for mothers

With expert pediatric and lactation guidance available at Sarvesh Health City, breastfeeding-related jaundice can be effectively managed.

Breast Milk Jaundice

What it is: Breast milk jaundice is caused by certain substances in breast milk that interfere with bilirubin breakdown.

When it appears: After the first week of life and may last several weeks.

Treatment:

Continued breastfeeding in most cases

Regular monitoring of bilirubin levels

Temporary pause in breastfeeding only in rare cases

This condition is generally harmless and resolves naturally.

Hemolytic Jaundice

What it is: Hemolytic jaundice occurs when red blood cells break down faster than normal, leading to excessive bilirubin production. Causes include blood group incompatibility (Rh or ABO) and genetic disorders.

When it appears: Often within the first 24 hours of life.

Treatment:

Phototherapy

Medications if required

Blood transfusion in severe cases

Prompt care at the best pediatric hospital in Hisar is critical to prevent complications such as kernicterus.

Infectious Jaundice

What it is: This type results from infections such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or other viral and bacterial infections affecting the liver.

Common in: Older infants and children

Treatment:

Treating the underlying infection

Adequate rest and hydration

Hospitalization in severe cases

Sarvesh Health City provides comprehensive pediatric infection management with advanced diagnostic support.

Obstructive Jaundice

What it is: Obstructive jaundice occurs when there is a blockage in the bile ducts, preventing bilirubin from being excreted. Conditions like biliary atresia can cause this type.

Symptoms:

Persistent jaundice

Pale stools

Dark urine

Treatment:

Surgical intervention

Long-term follow-up with pediatric specialists

Early diagnosis at the best pediatric hospital in Hisar significantly improves outcomes.

Metabolic and Genetic Jaundice

What it is: Certain inherited metabolic disorders and genetic liver diseases can lead to prolonged jaundice in children.

Treatment:

Specialized blood tests

Long-term medical management

Dietary modifications

Sarvesh Health City offers multidisciplinary care for complex pediatric liver conditions.

Diagnosis of Jaundice in Children

Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Pediatricians may recommend:

Blood tests to measure bilirubin levels

Liver function tests

Ultrasound or imaging studies

Infection screening

Genetic testing (if required)

Advanced diagnostic facilities make Sarvesh Health City a trusted choice for parents seeking the best pediatric hospital in Hisar.

Why Choose Sarvesh Health City?

Sarvesh Health City is recognized as one of the best pediatric hospitals in Hisar, offering:

Experienced pediatricians and neonatologists

Child-friendly infrastructure

Advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities

24/7 emergency pediatric care

Holistic support for parents and children

Whether it is mild newborn jaundice or a complex liver condition, your child receives compassionate and expert care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is jaundice common in children?

Yes, jaundice is very common in newborns and can also occur in older children due to infections or liver conditions.

When should I worry about jaundice in my child?

If jaundice appears within 24 hours of birth, lasts longer than two weeks, or is accompanied by fever, poor feeding, or pale stools, consult a pediatrician immediately.