Why does baby develop jaundice after birth? Is it dangerous?

Question

One of the parent asked me this question during clinical posting in child ward.
Her newborn had developed yellowish discoloration and she wanted to know cause and how dangerous it was.
How do I counsel her?

Answer 1

All jaundice are not dangerous. Following are the signs of serious jaundice:

 1. Jaundice appearing within 24 hours of life (Pathologic jaundice)
 2. Jaundice persistent after 3 weeks of life (Persistent jaundice)
 3. Lethargy, poor feeding, irritability or difficulty breathing
 4. Jaundice till palms and soles
 5. Jaundice that rapidly worsens
 6. Fever