neonatal jaundice

Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns where their skin and eyes appear yellowish. It happens because their liver isn’t fully developed and cannot efficiently break down a substance called bilirubin, which is produced when the body clears old red blood cells. Elevated bilirubin levels then deposit in the skin and eyes, causing the yellow tint. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own or with light treatment. Monitoring and managing bilirubin levels is important because very high levels can affect the brain, but with proper care, jaundice typically improves quickly and without complications.