Why Do Newborn Babies Have Yellow Eyes? What Should Be Done?
The most common cause of yellow eyes in newborns is jaundice, which can be physiological or pathological. Physiological jaundice usually resolves spontaneously within 7-14 days and does not require special treatment. However, if the jaundice persists and the jaundice value continues to increase, it is necessary to be vigilant for pathological jaundice and seek medical attention from a pediatrician. Severe jaundice can cause yellowing of the limbs and palms.
Let's take a closer look at the causes and management of yellow eyes in newborns.
There are several possible causes of yellow eyes in newborns. Firstly, it may be due to jaundice, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. In this case, exposure to sunlight and appropriate feeding of glucose water can help to alleviate the symptoms, and the condition usually resolves within about half a month. Secondly, it may be due to incomplete eye development in newborns. This is not a concern as the eyes of newborns are only photosensitive at birth and will develop fully over time, so the yellowing of the eyes will disappear as the baby grows.
Yellow eyes in newborns are often a normal physiological phenomenon known as physiological jaundice. This is due to the immature liver function of newborns, which is unable to effectively metabolize bilirubin, resulting in a higher concentration of bilirubin in the blood and causing yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes. The whites of the eyes may also appear yellow, known as scleral icterus. This condition typically peaks around two weeks and then gradually resolves, so no special treatment is required. However, if the yellowing persists for a long time or recurs after resolving, it may indicate pathological jaundice, and further evaluation and treatment by a pediatrician are recommended.
In simple terms, jaundice is a symptom characterized by yellowing of the skin in babies. Essentially, it is caused by the accumulation of a yellow-colored substance called bilirubin in the blood. You can observe the degree of skin yellowing in babies under natural light. Mild jaundice is present when only the face is affected, moderate jaundice involves the trunk, and severe jaundice occurs when the limbs and palms also show yellowing.
