What are the signs and symptoms of neonatal jaundice?
The signs and symptoms will depend largely on the cause. In the physiological group the jaundice is only noted on the second or third day. The baby feeds well, behaves normally and there is no enlarged liver or spleen on examination. The urine may be dark but the stools are normal colour. The bilirubin levels are not significantly raised, below 275 mol/l. The jaundice resolves over two to three weeks. Breastmilk jaundice becomes apparent after a few days; the TSB rarely exceeds 275 mol/l but it is a cause of prolonged jaundice; the baby remains completely well and continues to thrive. It is not a reason to stop breastfeeding.
